While the owner-implemented lockout that's been in place since Dec. 3 snuffed out the hot stove, the New York Yankees were active in doing their due diligence on some high-profile free agents before the labor stoppage. According to Jon Heyman, the Yankees "requested and received" medical reports on shortstop Carlos Correa, and left-handers Carlos Rodón and Yusei Kikuchi. 

It's already known that the Yankees checked in with Correa prior to the lockout, but the request for medicals suggests their interest in the All-Star goes beyond the cursory. Thanks to Correa's combination of exceptional plate production and strong defense at the premium position of shortstop, the 27-year-old is our No. 1 ranked free agent for the 2021-22 offseason. 

In addition to a heart-of-the-order bat and skilled fielder like Correa, the Yankees could also use pitching help.