With the trade deadline at the end of July rapidly approaching, the Yankees are expected to make some aggressive roster changes, particularly focusing on strengthening their infield. Currently, Ben Rice is filling in for the injured Anthony Rizzo, but the other three starters are facing challenges.
Yankees Eye Aggressive Moves as Trade Deadline Approaches
Although Anthony Volpe’s elite defensive skills at shortstop are indispensable, and his offensive contributions have been streaky yet positive, Gleyber Torres and DJ LeMahieu are under intense scrutiny. The time is ticking for both to prove they can be impactful for the duration of the campaign.
DJ LeMahieu’s Struggling Season
As the primary third baseman, DJ LeMahieu’s performance has been underwhelming. Across 37 games this season, he’s batting .188 with a .284 on-base percentage, and he has yet to hit a home run, collecting only 11 RBIs. Despite being reliable with runners in scoring position, his overall disappointing numbers and a career-high 57.7% ground ball rate, which often results in double plays, are concerning for the Yankees during a potential playoff run.
Gleyber Torres Faces Uncertain Future
Gleyber Torres is having one of his worst professional seasons. In a contract year, with a salary of $14.2 million, the Yankees seem ready to move on. Over 93 games, Torres has managed a .231 average with a .307 OBP, including eight homers and 35 RBIs. His career-low 34.9% hard-hit rate signals a decline, casting doubt on his future contributions.
Potential Trade Targets and Internal Interest
The Yankees have expressed interest in Jazz Chisholm of the Miami Marlins and Luis Rengifo of the Los Angeles Angels as potential infield reinforcements. Both players would require a significant investment in terms of minor-league talent to acquire.
Jon Berti: A Timely Recovery
Jon Berti, sidelined with a calf injury, is eagerly anticipated to return in August. Last season, Berti hit .294 with a .344 OBP and is known for his consistent batting and solid on-base percentages. His sprint speed, ranked in the 94th percentile, along with his solid defensive contributions, makes him a valuable asset, particularly as the Yankees struggle with base-stealing this season.
- Yankees’ top prospect ‘in the conversation’ for promotion
- Yankees have 3 things to prove against the Cardinals
- 3 Yankees who shouldn’t touch the field during the postseason
Urgent Needs and Potential Solutions
As the trade deadline nears, the Yankees are poised to make critical decisions to bolster their lineup. With potential gaps in second and third base, acquiring a player like Chisholm or Rengifo could significantly enhance the team’s dynamics, albeit at a high cost.