The remaining free-agent pitchers include veterans Lance Lynn, Kyle Gibson, and Spencer Turnbull. Each is experienced but hardly ideal for replacing Cole's elite-level production. The Yankees could also explore the trade market, but such deals are notoriously difficult to execute this early in the season.

This offseason has resulted in starting pitching help, relieving assistance, and multiple options for a clear-cut closer (although no closer has been named) to help the efforts on the mound. More news: Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Gets Major Praise From Future Hall of Fame Outfielder With so much talent from offseason acquisitions as well as the health of key arms making their return ahead of Opening Day,