The New York Yankees' main priority in free agency will be trying to retain star slugger Juan Soto, but the team reportedly also has an interest in improving its pitching staff.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Yankees "checked on" free-agent ace pitchers Max Fried, Corbin Burnes and Blake Snell, and also "are interested" in Sean Manaea, who is expected to turn down a $21.05 million qualifying offer from the New York Mets.

Heyman added that the Yankees also "checked in on" outfielder Anthony Santander and Mets free-agent slugger Pete Alonso, but both of them are viewed as "strictly backup plans" if Soto doesn't re-sign.

The Yankees' starting rotation will once again be led by ace Gerrit Cole, who chose to stay with the team on his original deal rather than opt out and test free agency this offseason. The 34-year-old overcame an early injury this past season and finished the year with an 8-5 record in 17 starts with a 3.41 ERA and 99 strikeouts.

Behind Cole, Carlos Rodon has proven to be a reliable No. 2 starter, and youngsters Clarke Schmidt and Luis Gil are expected to play key roles next season as well. Adding another top pitcher to the mix would surely boost New York's chances of making another deep postseason run next year following its loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 World Series.

However, the Yankees likely won't be able to address their pitching staff until Soto makes his decision. The 26-year-old is the most prized free agent on the market and will have the opportunity to sign a historic contract, so New York will face significant competition in its quest to retain him.

If the Yankees are successful in keeping Soto and adding an ace pitcher, they will remain the favorites to represent the American League in the World Series next year.