As the Yankees pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training for the 2025 season, the team is laser-focused on the unfinished business of last year’s World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. After coming so close to glory in 2024, they’re driven to reclaim their place at the top of baseball. With key players like Gerrit Cole channeling the frustration from that defeat into motivation, excitement is building as camp kicks off. New challenges await, including the backup catcher competition, uncertainty at the corner infield spots, and the ever-present question of whether they can keep the roster healthy. But the overarching goal remains: to bring championship baseball back to the Bronx.
Ben Rice working out with the pitchers and catchers
With the trade that sent Jose Trevino to the Reds, the Yankees backup catcher spot is up for grabs, despite having acquired catcher Alex Jackson in the deal alongside RHP Fernando Cruz. Especially given Alex Jackson has only appeared in 124 games across five seasons. While Austin Wells is set to be the every day starter, the backup role remains unclear. A familiar face in the mix is Ben Rice, who played 50 games at first base for the Yankees last season. Rice is now working with the catching group during Spring Training, with manager Aaron Boone noting that they’re looking to increase his positional flexibility, keeping both catcher and first base in play. Also in the conversation is non-roster invitee Omar Martinez, who led Yankees Minor Leaguers in walks last season and ranked highly in OBP, walks, and OPS in the South Atlantic League. It’s shaping up to be an intriguing competition as camp unfolds.
Marcus Stroman reports to Yankees camp
Despite rumors that the Yankees had explored every option to trade Marcus Stroman this offseason, no deal went through. His 2026 vesting option added some complications, but he still showed up to camp with uncertainty hanging over him. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the tension, admitting that things might feel awkward, but the team is staying focused on getting Stroman ready to pitch.
Jake Cousins put on IL
Jake Cousins, a key reliever for the Yankees, arrived at spring training with a forearm strain, putting his availability for Opening Day in doubt. Despite the setback, manager Aaron Boone remains optimistic about his recovery. Cousins posted a 2.37 ERA last season and was a key part of the bullpen.
Boone speaks to press
Boone met with the press on Tuesday, highlighting several key points ahead of the Yankees 2025 season:
Championship Expectations: Boone emphasized that despite a long road ahead, he’s “very encouraged” by the team’s early focus. “We’ve got to work at that every day,” he said, stressing the goal of returning to the World Series.
Juan Soto’s Departure: While disappointed that Soto chose the Mets, Boone acknowledged the front office’s successful pivot, focusing on the team’s ability to “build a great team” without him.
Leadoff Spot Competition: Boone sees a few potential leadoff hitters, including Jasson Dominguez, Cody Bellinger, Anthony Volpe, and Jazz Chisholm Jr.
DJ LeMahieu’s Role: Boone expressed confidence in a healthy LeMahieu, who could secure significant playing time at third base, despite competition from others.
Contract Extension Talks: Boone mentioned discussions about a contract extension but noted nothing was finalized. “There’s no other place I’d rather be,” he said.
Adding Lefty Relievers: The Yankees signed Tim Hill and invited Tyler Matzek and Brent Headrick to camp to bolster their bullpen.
Cole ready to take care of unfinished business
After the season, Yankees ace Gerrit Cole activated his opt-out clause, a move that was “widely anticipated” around baseball. The Yankees had the option to block the opt-out by adding another year and $36 million to the remaining four years and $144 million on his contract. However, the team wasn’t ready to make that commitment, and Cole had no desire to play elsewhere. After a brief period of uncertainty, both parties agreed to honor the original deal and revisit the possibility of an extension down the line.
Cole spoke with reporters on Wednesday, stating, “The intention wasn’t to do anything other than stay. I was happy to be where my feet were back in Yankee Stadium.”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone also expressed relief at Cole’s decision to return. “He kind of put us at ease a little bit,” Boone said. “You never know, great pitchers are obviously really attractive on the market. But obviously, relieved when he came back in.”
While the idea of Cole exploring other teams seemed unlikely, especially given the unfinished business from last season, it was still a point of uncertainty. Cole was on the mound during the critical fifth inning of Game 5 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, a moment that dashed their championship hopes. Reflecting on that experience during his media session on Wednesday, Cole shared that it serves as additional motivation.
“It served as a strong reminder for us,” he said. “We’re proud of what we achieved, but there’s still a sense of disappointment lingering. It adds fuel to the fire and pushes you to put in the work.”
Spring Training Dates
February 11: Pitchers and catchers report to Tampa for spring training
February 12: First workout for pitchers and catchers
February 16: Position players report to Tampa
February 17: First full-squad workout
February 21: Yankees first exhibition game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Steinbrenner Field
March 15: Yankees prospects play the Baltimore Orioles prospects in Sarasota, Florida
March 23: Yankees final exhibition game against the Miami Marlins
