The acquisitions of Paul Goldschmidt, Devin Williams, Cody Bellinger, and Max Fried have been the highlights of the New York Yankees’ offseason. However, they might try to add an infielder after allowing Gleyber Torres to enter free agency.
The Yankees are “actively trying to deal” Marcus Stroman, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. He could be able to help them out in the infield as well. Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report suggested this trade, which would send Luis Arráez from the San Diego Padres to the Bronx in addition to dumping Stroman:
Last winter, Stroman agreed to a two-year contract worth $37 million. He also has a 2026 vesting option for $18 million. The success he experienced during his 2023 All-Star season was not sustained. The Yankees should make trading him a top priority. In order to persuade the Padres to part with Arráez, the Yankees would need to cover a portion of Stroman’s contract and provide a top five prospect.
After the season, Arráez will be a free agent, and if the Padres believe he will walk in free agency, they may be willing to trade him. In free agency, Spotrac predicts he will sign a nine-year contract worth $154 million.
If the Yankees see Arráez as a long-term option, they might afford to pay him. He is a below-average second baseman defensively. His skill at the plate, however, makes up for his subpar defense.
Throughout his career, he has a minus-33 outs over average at second base. He has won three batting titles, two Silver Slugger awards, and three All-Star selections.
