The Yankees‘ future is hard to tell, as due to COVID-19, their financial flexibility has been slashed significantly. Managing partner Hal Steinbrenner stated that the team lost an exorbitant amount of money, which could hold them back from targeting big-name free agents this off-season.
What does that mean for younger players like Miguel Andujar, who failed to make a statement during the 2020 season? Well, it presents another opportunity in pinstripes.
Andújar had a tumultuous 2020 campaign, playing in just 21 of the Yankees’ 60 games this past season. He struggled significantly in the batter’s box and had his hiccups in the outfield as well. He hit just .115 during the month of August, which forced the Yankees to send him back to the alternate site in favor of Clint Frazier.
However, Miggy shouldn’t be put on the back burner just yet, as he holds exponential value as a reserve option and DH.
Back in 2018, Andujar finished with a .297 batting average, .855 on-base + slugging percentage, and 27 homers. He set a record with 47 doubles over 573 at-bats, but his defense was his lowest point and evident weakness. He had a .948 fielding percentage with 15 errors at third base, which forced the Yankees to make a decision.
They ultimately found Gio Urshela and watched his development on the hot corner. He is now one of their best offensive and defensive players, making Andujar the odd man out.
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The New York Yankees need to find value in Andujar:
With Frazier and Urshela cementing positions on the starting team, Andujar will be fighting for reserve reps. His agent has already voiced his concern about his playing time and lack of action, indicating that a trade is on the way.
From an overall perspective, Andujar simply doesn’t have a place on the Yankees‘ roster, as his defense in the outfield is questionable, and he cannot be relied on in the infield.
My best guess would be that GM Brian Cashman tries to trade him for prospects or a bullpen arm. His offensive capabilities make him a valuable player, but the Yankees simply have too many talented options to guarantee him starting reps.