New York Yankees: Miguel Andujar and Clint Frazier both trade deadline candidates?

The New York Yankees considered trading third baseman Miguel Andujar in a package deal for relief pitching Josh Hader a few weeks ago. Still, nothing materialized, and the young infielder remains with the team.

After suffering a torn Labrum in 2019, Andujar’s value took a tumble, but his stellar rookie season in 2018 has justified the promise he represents. A .297 batting average with 27 homers and 47 doubles makes him a bounce-back candidate for the season ahead, and he hasn’t taken a moment off from refining his abilities and preparing for the regular season.

A recent clip of him working out not only shows how much bigger/stronger he’s gotten, but also a new fielding technique that doesn’t include a double-clutch.

An improved Andujar should provide competition at third base with Gio Urshela, but the Yankees’ starting option in 2019 will get the first crack at the job to start the regular season. Andujar will likely feature in a designated hitter role or rotational hand at the hot corner, but his value will predominantly be offensive.

If Miggy can return to his previous offensive form, his value could be a commodity at the trade deadline. The Yankees could have positions of weakness they need to support, and they will have the ammo to solve them.

Aside from Andujar, the Bombers also have Clint Frazier, who’s projected as the No. 5 outfielder until Aaron Hicks returns from Tommy John surgery. Frazier, who struggled defensively last season, posted adequate offensive totals. Boasting a .268 BA with 12 homers and 38 RBIs, Frazier could be of value in a trade as well. It will be difficult for him to earn playing time unless he stands out during spring training. After losing favor with the Yankees brass after a terrible defensive outing against the Red Sox last season, his impact on the team quickly deteriorated.

If Frazier cannot help himself moving forward, I expect to see him on the trade block as soon as this offseason.