Paul Goldschmidt’s Yankees tenure ended with questions about his future, as the veteran slugger expressed a desire to keep playing after a season that started red-hot but cooled late. A one-year, $12.5 million deal backed his stint in New York, but a platoon at first base and heavy usage of Ben Rice defined his late-year role. Rice blossomed with 26 homers in 138 games, hinting at a possible longer-term alignment at first base, especially against lefties, while Goldschmidt’s lefty survivability remained elite. The Yankees also weigh free-agent futures for Bellinger, Grisham, Williams and Weaver as they reshape the roster.

Rice’s breakout and Goldschmidt’s sustained productivity against lefties underscore a potential shift: Rice could threaten a full-time first-base/ catcher niche next season, while Goldschmidt’s future hinges on opportunity and health. The postseason added a small sample for both, with Goldschmidt remaining a top defensive anchor and Rice providing offensive pop. The offseason looms large for NYY, with multiple veterans and younger players in the mix for 2025 roles.

Boston is chasing Alex Bregman, a move that would dramatically boost fantasy upside for a team building around Mayer, Rafaela and Anthony. A signing would bring immediate power and run production and add playoff-tested leadership to the clubhouse.

His .272/.365/.481 career line with 209 homers, 725 RBIs and 43.1 WAR translates to reliable counting stats in 2025, while veteran presence could accelerate Boston’s prospects. Kennedy wants talks now to keep him away from rivals, and Story’s opt-out chatter adds urgency.

Anthony Volpe stole the spotlight in October, hitting 4-for-11 in the Wild Card sweep to lift his playoff average to .300 in 17 games. His bat and clutch defense — including key plays that saved rallies — helped the Yankees oust Boston and set up the ALDS with Toronto. Boonedefines him as a gamer who thrives in the moment, and Volpe closed the season hot after a shoulder issue. Fantasy takeaway: Volpe’s multi‑category upside at shortstop keeps him a top target as the playoff push continues.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. sparked New York’s comeback in Game 2, sprinting home on Austin Wells’ tiebreaking hit and delivering two clutch defensive plays that kept the Yankees alive in the AL Wild Card. Benched in Game 1, he answered with a game-changing performance and a clear message: the stage brings out his best. New York escaped Boston 4-3, forcing a decisive Game 3 and underscoring Chisholm’s high-leverage value for fantasy managers who chase multi-positional, high-usage players in must-win games.