Yankees: 3 former players who could return to the Bronx

The Yankees have let some key players go over the years. Here are three stars who could make sensational returns to the Bronx in 2021. 

MLB free agency is moving at a snail’s pace which means the Yankees’ front office still has a lot of work to do. It’s very possible that Brian Cashman and his team will turn to some familiar faces to strengthen Aaron Boone’s roster before Opening Day.

Not every former Yankee is well equipped to don pinstripes for a second tour of duty. Sonny Gray won’t be making a triumphant return to New York anytime soon. The team wouldn’t take him back if he agreed to pitch for free.

The following three players could realistically return to the Yankees this season. Keep a close eye on the status of each star as the Hot Stove actually heats up.

3. Dellin Betances

The 33-year-old reliever was a mainstay in the Bronx before signing a two-year deal with the Mets in free agency ahead of the 2020 season. It’s easy to envision a scenario where New York’s National League franchise tries to move Betances and his $6 million salary ahead of this year’s trade deadline.

If Betances does pitch well to start the 2021 season he could really interest the Yankees as a bullpen piece who can help give the pitching staff a meaningful boost heading into the postseason. The fact that he’s already proven his ability to stand up to the scrutiny of the New York media would make him an even more attractive acquisition for Cashman and his front office.

The problem with this idea is that the Mets fancy themselves as playoff contenders this year as well. As long as they stay in the race, they’ll hang on to Betances and every other key player on their roster.

Lots of things have to break right for Betances to find his way back to the Yankees this season, but it’s not an impossible dream. Veteran relievers move at the trade deadline every season and Betances can make himself a prime trade chip by pitching well to start the year.