It certainly looks like the Yankees’ rough offseason is far from over. If you remember, we’ve already talked about how their capped payroll has basically taken them out of the running for stars like Cody Bellinger or Kyle Tucker. And as Hal Steinbrenner has openly said, the team is trying to stay under a $300 million budget. Thus, chasing those high-priced names feels even more unrealistic.

As MLB insider Buster Olney put it, with their 2026 payroll already projected around $213 million, the Yankees just don’t look like big spenders this winter. But the twist? The Cubs are reportedly stepping in and doubling down on the very players the Yankees are still eyeing. A move that could shut the door on the Bombers’ offseason hopes altogether.

“It will be an active offseason,” The Athletic q

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