The Yankees’ offseason financial strategy has been heavily shaped by their current luxury tax limitations. With their payroll already surpassing the $301 million threshold, adding a high-priced player like Alex Bregman is virtually impossible.

Bregman, expected to secure a deal in the $200 million range, would demand more than $25 million per year—an expense the Yankees can’t afford, considering their roster and looming tax penalties.

Luxury Tax Constraints
The Yankees’ ability to target top-tier free agents like Bregman is severely restricted by the luxury tax system. Signing a player of his caliber would not only push their payroll higher but also trigger significant tax penalties. With these financial restrictions, the Yankees are likely to focus on more budget-friendly options, such as short-term trades or arbitration-eligible players, instead of adding another long-term financial commitment.

Concerns Over Age and Decline
Bregman’s age and contract demands also raise red flags for the Yankees’ front office. At 31 years old, Bregman is entering the latter stages of his career, and his performance is expected to decline over a multi-year deal.

Although Bregman had a solid 2024 season with 145 games played, 26 home runs, and 79 RBIs, his .260 batting average and .315 on-base percentage suggest a slight downturn from his prime years. Committing to a player in the twilight of his career could be risky for a team already dealing with financial constraints.

2024 Performance Review
Bregman’s 2024 season showed he still has offensive value, with a .453 slugging percentage and a .331 wOBA, but these numbers are not at the elite levels of his earlier seasons. While his defense remains strong—posting 8.1 defensive WAR in 2024—concerns about his future performance persist as he enters his mid-thirties.

Focusing on Affordable Alternatives
Given their financial situation, the Yankees will likely explore more affordable alternatives to strengthen their infield. Instead of committing to another expensive, long-term contract, they are expected to pursue players on shorter deals or through trades that offer more financial flexibility. While Bregman’s talent is undeniable, his age and cost make him an impractical fit for the Yankees, who are already stretched financially.