One way or another, the New York Yankees need to solve their shortstop position this off-season. With the lockout still underway, there’s no telling when teams will be able to negotiate with players, but when things open back up, it will be a frenzy to land the remaining talents on the market.
Of course, names like Carlos Correa and Trevor Story will still be connected to the Bombers, but management could take a more cost-efficient approach via trade.
The Oakland Athletics have been heavily connected to the Yankees regarding several prospective trades, including Matt Chapman and Matt Olson. However, Arizona Diamondbacks SS Nick Ahmed has also bubbled to the surface in recent days after a down season in 2021.
The Yankees might be smart to reach out to Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen to inquire about Ahmed, who is preparing to turn 32 years old after playing 129 games this past season. Ahmed is currently on a four-year, $32.5 million contract and is owed $7.75 million for the 2022 season.
Considering the Diamondbacks lost 110 games this past year, they are expected to be sellers this off-season, and Ahmed is undoubtedly a potential candidate for departure. In 2021, Ahmed hit .221 with five homers and 38 RBIs. However, during the 2019 season, he hit .254 with 19 homers and 82 RBIs, including an 18.1% strikeout rate. Defensively, Ahmed is an above-average player who can offer solid efficiency on an everyday basis.
Considering the Yankees will likely be looking for a short-term solution so they can elevate Oswald Peraza or Anthony Volpe in the future, Ahmed could fit the bill with his contract expiring in 2024 after earning $10 million in 2023.
Realistically, the Yankees probably have better offensive options they can explore compared to Ahmed for a similar timeframe, but if the Diamondbacks are planning to be sellers, they could likely scoop him up for a fraction of what others are commanding for quality players.