The New York Yankees are in dire need of utility support after outfielder Aaron Hicks suffered a bone contusion in his right shin on Tuesday evening against the Cincinnati Reds. To help supplement his loss, the Bombers called upon a familiar face, Tyler Wade, to help smooth over the adversity.
Per the Yankees:
The New York Yankees announced that they have acquired INF/OF Tyler Wade on Wednesday from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
The Yankees acquired Wade from the Los Angeles Angels after playing 67 games this season with 163 plate appearances. He currently features a .218 average won-base7.2% on base rate, one homer, and eight RBIs. He has stolen eight bases this year, coming off his best campaign as a professional with the Yankees in 2021.
Last season, he recorded a .268 average and 35% on base rate over 145 plate appearances. His numbers have fallen off significantly this season, but he is still a valuable player on the base paths and can play multiple defensive positions.
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Wade has experience at nearly every infield spot aside from first base and plays all three outfield positions, showcasing its value.
The Yankees know what to expect from the 27-year-old, and after being DFAd by the Los Angeles Angels, the Bombers saw an easy opportunity to recoup his talent.
At the very least, Wade is a serviceable defensive player who can run the base paths well at a cheap price point. However, losing Aaron Hicks is a big deal, given his performance lately.
In June, Hicks elevated his batting average to .247 with a 35.6% on-base rate. So far in July, he was hitting .370 with a 48.5% on base over 27 at-bats. Bone contusion injuries can be serious, but he was able to flex his ankle on Wednesday, which was a sign of progress.
Hopefully, Hicks’s injury won’t be a long-term situation, allowing him to return after the All-Star break.