3 2021 Free Agents Yankees Should Focus on Next Winter

The 2020 MLB season will be a strange one, assuming it takes place at all. With the coronavirus stifling action in America's pastime until at least July in a best-case scenario, it will be impossible to predict how exactly the MLB will choose to commence with the season when they resume. As a result, many teams will already have an eye on the 2021 free agent class, including the Yankees. Here are three free agents General Manager Brian Cashman should chase after.

3. Trevor Bauer

Trevor Bauer could be a spark of energy in New York. / Quinn Harris/Getty Images

It seems like every single season, no matter who is acquired, the Yankees are in constant need of starting pitching. This was apparent this season, after the injuries to James Paxton and Luis Severino, with the latter out until at least the middle of 2021. Trevor Bauer could be a key veteran presence that the Yanks' rotation may lack, with JA Happ's contract expiring after 2020. However, Bauer and Gerrit Cole are not on the best of terms, and that could prevent the former Cleveland ace from taking his talents to the Bronx.

2. Michael Brantley

Michael Brantley has never had a season of more than 76 strikeouts. / Joel Auerbach/Getty Images

Before crying out over a former Houston Astro joining the Yankees, Brantley was not on the team from 2017 embroiled in controversy. Even so, Brantley's approach at the plate is a style that Yankees are desperate for. Brantley has never had a season of 100 strikeouts, and has only bat below a .250 average once in a season. With the future of Brett Gardner uncertain after 2020, Brantley could be the perfect replacement for him.

1. Didi Gregorius

Didi Gregorious was a fan favorite during his time with the New York Yankees. / Rob Leiter/Getty Images

Nothing quite like a reunion with an old friend. Didi Gregorius signed a 1-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies before the 2020 season, ending his five-year tenure in the Bronx and leaving many fond memories behind. However, with the status of a possible extension with DJ Lemahieu still uncertain, the Yankees front office may have to re-sign the shortstop in order to fill the hole in the infield. At age 31, he will still have a couple years of his prime left to give to the Yankees in their chase for a World Series.