Yankees’ acquisition of Anthony Rizzo could spell the end for Luke Voit | Is a trade on the way?

New York Yankees, Luke Voit
Sep 15, 2020; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Luke Voit (59) hits an RBI single during the fourth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees made two massive moves to improve the batting order, injecting slugging left-handed batters. Acquiring Joey Gallo from the Texas Rangers and Anthony Rizzo from the Chicago Cubs will contribute more offensive production immediately.

Both players are expected to join the team against Miami on Friday, as Rizzo will take over at first base, and Gallo will host an outfield spot.

However, the acquisition of Rizzo could make Luke Voit expendable, as the Yankees have drawn interest in the power righty.

Jack Curry of the YES Network has indicated that the Yankees could trade first baseman, Luke Voit:

Luke Voit has drawn interest in trade discussions the Yankees are having with multiple teams. Voit is on the verge of returning from the IL. Led the majors with 22 HRs last season, but has been limited to 29 games this season.

Unfortunately, while Voit is a key piece to the lineup and has been one of the most exciting players for the Yankees the past two seasons, he was simply replaced due to injury.

Voit is currently on his third stint on the injured list due to left knee inflammation. Having signed a $4.7 million deal this past off-season, the Yankees could theoretically get his money off the books and add a bit more wiggle room to acquire a pitcher, whether it be in the bullpen or starting rotation.
There is always the possibility that the Yankees utilize Voit as their DH upon his return, which would give them one of the best home run hitting lineups in baseball if they don’t have it already. With team control until the 2024 season, Voit is an extremely valuable piece, and they might be inclined to retain him, given Rizzo is on the final year of a seven-year, $41 million contract. The Cubs are paying his entire $16.5 million this season but gained a solid haul of prospects in return.
On the year, Voit has only made 29 appearances, hitting .241 with three homers and 11 RBIs. However, he’s only one year removed from leading the MLB in homers with 22 and hosting a .277 average. He was arguably the Yankees’ top player last season, which shouldn’t be forgotten as Brian Cashman is looking to acquire value after the acquisition of Rizzo.