Yankees Eyeing Third Base Upgrades as Trade Season Approaches
The Yankees are off to a solid start in 2025, but they’re already looking at potential trade deadline moves to bolster their roster as they defend their American League title.
Third base stands out as their most glaring need. While Oswaldo Cabrera has produced respectably with a 105 OPS+ in DJ LeMahieu’s absence, the Yankees will likely be shopping for an upgrade at the hot corner this summer.
Eugenio Suarez of the Arizona Diamondbacks could be a perfect fit. Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report identified Suarez as a potential Yankees target, along with the Cardinals’ Nolan Arenado and the Rays’ Yandy Diaz.
“This may well be an ‘Arenado or bust’ situation, which is a bit what it felt like all winter, even though the Yankees were never one of the teams rumored to be seriously pursuing the Cardinals third baseman,” Miller wrote.
While Arenado would be the flashier acquisition, Suarez makes practical sense as a rental. The 33-year-old is in the final year of his $66 million contract, potentially making him available if Arizona falls out of contention.
Don’t let Suarez’s .156 batting average through 13 games fool you. He’s tied for the National League lead with five home runs and boasts a strong 128 OPS+. The former All-Star would bring much-needed right-handed power to the Yankees lineup.
What makes this interesting is the Yankees’ luxury tax situation. Both GM Brian Cashman and owner Hal Steinbrenner have preached caution about adding payroll, but competitive pressure might force their hand. They’re the defending AL champs, after all.
We’re still months away from the trade deadline, but Suarez is definitely a name to watch if the Yankees finally decide to address their third base situation. The question isn’t really if they’ll make a move, but who they’ll target and how much they’re willing to spend to do it.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
MORE MLB NEWS:
