Yankees news: New York leads race for 21-year-old Japanese pitcher

The New York Yankees are reportedly the most likely destination to sign 21-year-old Japanese right-handed pitcher Hironari Hiroike, according to Japanese outlet Sports Hochi. Hiroike, who pitched for Keio University in the Tokyo Big6 Baseball League, posted a 2.88 ERA with an 11.52 strikeout rate across six games. After going undrafted in the NPB, the hard-throwing righty is expected to sign a minor-league contract with a Major League Baseball club.

The roundup also highlighted other Yankees offseason storylines, including analysis identifying an infield bat as the club's biggest need. Additionally, potential upgrades at catcher involving Colorado Rockies backstop Hunter Goodman were discussed, while closer David Bednar weighs a one-year qualifying offer from New York.