With Opening Day fast approaching, Alex Verdugo remains unsigned, but the former Yankees outfielder appears unbothered. He recently posted a highlight reel on Instagram with the caption “IN DUE TIME,” suggesting confidence in securing a contract.
The video featured his time with the Yankees, Red Sox, and Dodgers, but as of now, no team has made a serious move to sign him. With just over three weeks before the start of the regular season—excluding the Cubs-Dodgers series in Tokyo—Verdugo’s free agency status remains one of the bigger questions in the market.
Verdugo’s Average Performance and High Expectations Contribute to His Uncertain Free Agency
Several factors could be contributing to Verdugo’s prolonged free agency. He may be waiting for an offer that better reflects his perceived value, or teams may not view him as a priority signing. While he once had the potential of a top prospect, his offensive production has been largely average, with a career OPS+ of 101.
Some teams may see him as a reserve outfielder rather than an everyday starter, which could be another reason for the slow-moving market. Verdugo’s self-confidence in his abilities might be preventing him from accepting a lesser role or salary.
Alex Verdugo (MLB)Verdugo’s performance last season with the Yankees did little to boost his free-agent stock. He finished the year with a .233 batting average, a .647 OPS, and just 13 home runs—his worst full-season offensive output.
His numbers dropped drastically after June, as he batted just .205 with a .554 OPS in his final 80 games. While he managed to start all 14 of the Yankees’ postseason games, his struggles continued, as he hit just .208 in the playoffs and struck out to end Game 5 of the World Series.
Verdugo’s Defensive Strengths May Not Be Enough to Secure a Starting Role
Despite his struggles at the plate, Verdugo remained an asset in the field. According to Fangraphs, he recorded seven defensive runs saved, making him an above-average defender. However, his defensive contributions alone may not be enough to warrant a starting role, especially for teams looking for more well-rounded production.
The Yankees have already moved on, signing Cody Bellinger and preparing Jasson Dominguez for a starting role in left field, signaling no interest in bringing Verdugo back.
Verdugo has expressed a desire to return to the Yankees at some point, but that possibility seems unlikely in the near future. However, as spring training progresses, injuries and underperformance could open up opportunities for him elsewhere.
His defensive abilities and past flashes of offensive potential might attract a team in need of outfield depth. While his next destination remains uncertain, Verdugo’s confidence suggests he believes his time will come soon.
