The Yankees are eyeing a potential infield upgrade, and Willi Castro from the Minnesota Twins keeps popping up as an intriguing target. The switch-hitting utility man will hit free agency after this season, which could make him available as the trade deadline approaches.
Castro’s having a solid year with an .818 OPS in 56 games, building on his All-Star campaign last season when he posted a .717 OPS. What makes this different is his versatility – he can play multiple positions and gives you a completely different look than what the Yankees currently have.
DJ LeMahieu’s struggles continue with a .684 OPS in 32 games, and his defense isn’t what it used to be. When he’s playing second base, it pushes Jazz Chisholm Jr. over to third, where he’s not as comfortable defensively.
“He’s also an excellent athlete who’s a threat on the bases and can play pretty much anywhere you need him to,” FanSided’s Chris Landers noted. “That’s pretty much exactly what New York should be in the market for at the deadline.”
The timing could work out perfectly for the Yankees.
Minnesota sits at 37-40 in fourth place in the AL Central entering Monday’s games. They’re just 2½ games out of a wild card spot, but after getting embarrassed by the Brewers over the weekend, the front office might start taking calls on their pending free agents.
Castro offers exactly what the Yankees need – a more reliable bat than LeMahieu right now and someone who can actually stabilize second base. He’d also add some speed to a lineup that’s always looking for more base-running threats.
The way I see it, moving LeMahieu to a bench role wouldn’t be a complete loss either. He’s not completely lost at the plate, just not the threat he once was. Having that kind of veteran presence coming off the bench could actually upgrade their depth.
Castro should have plenty of suitors if Minnesota decides to sell, but the fit with New York makes a lot of sense. He’s a rental who addresses a clear need, and the Yankees have the prospect capital to make something work.
