The New York Yankees have started the season on a positive note, aiming for a successful return to the World Series. With an 8-6 record, they currently lead the American League East division. This promising start is partly due to impressive performances from newcomers like Paul Goldschmidt and Max Fried.

However, the team is grappling with a series of injuries affecting their starting pitchers and a crucial issue in the infield that could hinder their postseason aspirations. Oswaldo Cabrera has taken on the role of third baseman in nine of the Yankees’ initial games, accumulating nine hits and nine strikeouts.

After Saturday’s matchup against the San Francisco Giants, where Cabrera managed one hit in four at-bats with two strikeouts, it emerged that a top infielder nearly joined the Yankees last offseason. Giants’ shortstop Willy Adames shared with the New York Post that he had contemplated playing for the Yankees, stating, “There was a chance for me to be here, and the conversation was incredible.”

Adames, a standout free agent, hit 32 home runs in 2024 with the Milwaukee Brewers before signing a seven-year, $182 million contract with the Giants, a figure possibly beyond the Yankees’ budget. The thought of Adames strengthening the Yankees’ roster with his presence is hard to ignore.

While the Yankees have Anthony Volpe as their franchise shortstop, adding Adames could have offered an option at second base and allowed Jazz Chisholm Jr. to continue at third base, a position he assumed upon joining in 2024. This move might have kept Cabrera in a versatile role and potentially boosted the Yankees’ offensive output. As the season unfolds, the decision to let Adames sign with the Giants might weigh heavily on the Yankees.