Over the last three seasons, Kyle Higashioka has served as the New York Yankees third string catcher. He has come up and down when needed due to injuries or roster expansion. Each time that he comes up, he looks a bit more ready to take on more of a role with a major league team. Should the Yankees trade him to give him more of a chance?
Pros
Trading Higashioka would give him more playing time with his new team, an increased morale, and increased pay. Also, if you trade him, you could get a good return back. The Yankees could get more prospects or even a Mike Tauchman or Luke Voit type player.
Cons
Obviously, the big con is that you lose a good, up-and-coming player. Higashioka is a solid overall player, having a good and powerful swing while also playing solid defense.
With trades though, you never know. The guy you trade could become a star while what you get back disappoints.
Another Option
Instead of trading Higashioka, the team could trade Romine and make Higgy the Yankee back-up catcher. Romine has played well over the last few years, and is good enough to start on some teams. Romine would be a better option than any catchers that the Orioles have on their big-league roster.
Once the 2019 season concludes, the Yankees should make a decision and trade one of their catchers. Whoever they choose not to trade, they should make them the back-up to Gary Sanchez and let the other have a better opportunity on a different team.