The New York Yankees are looking to fill their first-base vacancy after letting Anthony Rizzo become a free agent. The team declined the option on Rizzo’s contract, making him available on the open market. To address this need, MLB analyst Tony Paul from the Detroit News predicted that the Yankees will sign Carlos Santana to replace Rizzo.
Santana, who will turn 39 in April, may not possess the same power he had in his prime, but he remains an effective player. In 2024, Santana was a valuable asset for the Minnesota Twins and could be a cost-effective option for the Yankees in 2025, especially after winning his first Gold Glove. Paul forecasts a two-year, $28 million deal for Santana, noting that the veteran could provide both strong defense and power to the middle of the Yankees’ lineup.
Despite his age, Santana’s bat still holds value, and his improved defensive abilities make him an attractive option for teams seeking stability at first base. The Yankees also have a potential future first baseman in Ben Rice, who spent 50 games with the team last season, hitting .171 with 7 home runs and 23 RBIs. Rice may benefit from a season or two learning from Santana before taking over as the starting first baseman in the next few years.
In 2024, Santana posted a .238 average with 23 home runs and 71 RBIs for the Twins. Over his 15-year MLB career, Santana has appeared in 2,080 games, compiling a .242 average with 324 home runs and 1,082 RBIs. Given the Yankees’ need for a first baseman, it’s expected that they will sign one this offseason.
On November 5, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman confirmed the team had checked in on free agent Pete Alonso, who would be a more high-profile addition at first base. Alonso, who hit .240 with 34 home runs and 88 RBIs for the Mets in 2024, is one of the top available first basemen this winter and would bring significant power to New York’s lineup.
Santana, for his part, has expressed interest in playing a few more seasons. His agent, Ulises Cabrera, told MLB insider Jon Morosi that Santana, now 38, wants to play for another three or four years. Coming off his first Gold Glove and his highest OPS (.749) since 2019, Santana is eager to continue his career.
Over his MLB tenure, Santana has played for several teams, including Cleveland, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Seattle, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, and Minnesota. A one-time All-Star and Silver Slugger winner, Santana has also appeared in 30 playoff games, hitting .205 with 5 home runs and 13 RBIs.
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