The New York Yankees face a significant challenge this year if they aim to secure a postseason spot. To do so, general manager Brian Cashman will have to skillfully restructure the team’s roster at the impending trade deadline.
Cashman has already expressed the Yankees’ need for an everyday left fielder and additional pitching support. However, the team requires several superior bats to reignite their offense.
Yankees’ Performance: A Look at the Stats
Currently ranked at the bottom of the league across numerous crucial categories, it will take a formidable comeback from Aaron Judge to set them back on course. Interestingly, Gleyber Torres, once viewed as potential trade bait and former All-Star infielder, is enjoying a solid 2023 season.
At 26 years old, Torres boasts a .263 batting average and a .332 OBP. These stats include 13 home runs, 38 RBIs, a 14.4% strikeout rate, a 9.4% walk rate, and a 110 wRC+. While these numbers may seem inconsistent on paper, he is on track to surpass 20 home runs for the second consecutive season. Additionally, his performance in July has been notable, hitting .339 with a .375 OBP and .833 OPS across 59 at-bats.
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Should the Yankees consider trading MLB-tested talent, Torres might indeed be appealing to several clubs, especially considering he remains under team control for another year before reaching free agency in 2025.
On the defensive side, Torres’ performance this year has been somewhat erratic, but he’s shown marked efficiency in recent weeks. Across 712.1 innings at second base, he’s achieved a .972 fielding percentage, despite committing nine errors. His defensive contribution has been about average, but his 2022 season stands out, during which he recorded nine defensive runs saved at second.
Given his value and his status as one of the Yankees’ most consistent hitters this year, despite fluctuating metrics, trading Torres might be a risky move.
Should Cashman Turn to Prospect Reserves?
Cashman might want to consider tapping into the Yankees’ prospect reserves, considering their reluctance to promote young players. The Yankees have a wealth of promising prospects ripe for selection, which they could readily use to secure above-average bats to boost the offense.
However, the effectiveness of such a modest acquisition raises questions, considering the significant support the Yankees need to get back on their feet and vie for a playoff spot.
Presently, they lag nine games behind in the American League East, including 2.5 games short of the final Wild Card spot. With both the Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox outpacing them, overtaking these teams will be no small feat.
Given these considerations, trading Torres could likely result in a net loss, making it prudent to retain him for the remainder of the season.