Yankees’ Aaron Boone indicates Miguel Andujar is sticking around after health check

The New York Yankees have floated the idea of sending infielder Miguel Andujar in a package deal to the Brewers in exchange for star relief pitcher, Josh Hader. While these talks are ongoing and sources have claimed that Hader will be moved this offseason, whether the Yankees provide the best deal or not, manager Aaron Boone advocated for the third baseman’s health.

Andujar, who’s preparing to make a comeback after missing virtually all of 2019 with a Labrum tear, is making significant progress and should be ready for Spring Training.

“[Andujar] is doing really well,’’ Boone said Friday at Yankee Stadium. “I expect him to be ready to go for spring training.’’

The third-year player, who had a stellar rookie campaign in 2018, earning a .297 batting average with 47 RBIs and 27 homers, will be looking to find a regular role on the team. With the emergence of Gio Urshela, Andujar has taken a backseat in the defensive department. Still, he will likely feature as the designated hitter, increasing his value as a potential trade piece down the line.

Andujar, though, could still be on the table to depart this offseason, despite Boone’s encouragement.

“His shoulder has been feeling good and there’s no reason to believe he won’t be full bore for spring training,” Boone said.

What could the Yankees do with Miguel Andujar aside from trading him?

There’s always the potential that Boone tries to move Andujar to a different position, where he could be of more value to the team moving forward. I believe keeping Andujar would be in the best interest of the team, as the Yankees don’t have a reserve third baseman, and his offensive production can be of value to the team in 2020.

Using him as trade bait at the deadline next year might be more suitable for the Bombers, who don’t know if he will return to his rookie form.