The New York Yankees are in hot pursuit of a shortstop this off-season, but while some fans believe they will spend big bucks on Carlos Correa, it is unlikely general manager Brian Cashman goes that route. With several young prospects climbing the system, Correa simply will cost too much over a long period of time to justify his contract.
With that being the case, the Yankees have a few options on the free-agent market that could suffice, including Andrelton Simmons, but notably Trevor Story.
The Bombers were connected to Story at the trade deadline this past season, but they reportedly “soured†on him, sticking with their own talent to supplement deficiencies by Gleyber Torres.
Torres recorded 18 errors this past year, logging a .952 fielding percentage with -10 defensive runs saved above average. He became a significant liability at the most important infield position, which is why the Yankees are keen on replacing him with an upgrade.
The Yankees would get better signing Trevor Story, even if he’s not as splashy:
Story would represent a significant upgrade at SS, slashing .251/.329/.471 with 24 homers and 75 RBIs during the 2020-21 season. While most would agree this was a down season for the Colorado star infielder, he is just one year removed from hitting .289 with 11 homers and 28 RBIs in just 259 plate appearances.
It was just three years ago that he hit 35 homers in a season, and with short porches in Yankee Stadium, he could replicate that production. The thin air in Colorado undoubtedly helps hitters, but DJ LeMahieu made the transition smoothly and would likely have a few tips for his former teammate.
On defense, Story posted a .975 fielding percentage with 10 defensive runs saved above average, a 20 run differential compared to Torres. He allowed 14 errors over 1,175 innings, showcasing much-improved defense.
Given Story is an established player with a long list of statistical numbers to justify his value, Yankees will likely view him as a solution. In addition, he would be far cheaper than acquiring Correa on a 10-year deal, with a potential to move him to third base at some point in the future. Ultimately, Cashman’s plans heavily revolve around the development of Anthony Volpe and Oswald Peraza.