The New York Yankees made a big move in bringing back Cody Bellinger earlier this week. But that was the only real move they made. When looking at moves made with players from outside the organization, New York has just one on the books. That is a trade with the Miami Marlins for Ryan Weathers. With the offseason winding down, the Yankees seem set heading into spring training. However, in-season moves are very much on the table.
Once the regular season starts, teams begin to know where their needs are. Most teams need pitching, but there are plenty of position players who will hit the trade block. One player that has been mentioned is Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi says that Abrams could be a player the Yankees target before the trade deadline, which is not until the end of July.
“[CJ] Abrams is the name for me that will likely at some point in time move on,” Morosi said. “Maybe the Yankees take a look at someone like an Abrams down towards the trade deadline.”
The Nationals just traded away MacKenzie Gore, and it is not crazy to assume they are willing to make more blockbuster trades as the season progresses.
New York Yankees Could Need a Shortstop
GettyAnthony Volpe could have his spot taken if he does not improve.
A trade for Abrams will rely on the success of Anthony Volpe. Volpe has been the starting shortstop in New York for three seasons now. He won the Gold Glove award in 2023, but has not produced much at the plate.
In his three seasons in the Bronx, Volpe has slashed .222/.283/.379 with 52 home runs, 192 RBI, and 217 runs scored. His OPS has never been above .666 in his MLB career. But Volpe remains a reliable player who can be on the field night in and night out. The 24-year-old played 153 games this past year, which is the fewest in his career.
His health is an asset, but his inability to make an impact at the plate is frustrating. Additionally, Volpe led the American League in errors among shortstops with 19. Volpe’s -7 OAA was seventh-worst in the entire MLB among his position group, as well.
Shortstop is a key position on the field, and Volpe’s struggles are a reason for worry. The Yankees will give him a chance this season to take a necessary step forward. But if they do not see an improvement, a change could be made.
CJ Abrams Fit In New York
GettyCJ Abrams could be dealt during the season, and the Yankees are a great fit.
Offensively, Abrams is an upgrade over Volpe. Over the last three seasons, Abrams has slashed .249/.310/.426 with 57 home runs, 189 RBI, and 254 runs scored. Over that time span, Abrams’ lowest OPS is .712.
The 25-year-old is also playing in a park that is much less power-friendly. Yankee Stadium ranks third in home run park factor over the last three years, while Nationals Park ranks 19th. Still, Abrams has been able to hit for more power than Volpe.
Defensively, Abrams is not much of an upgrade. He made more errors than Volpe last season, but 19 of them came on the throw. The 2024 All-Star has to find a way to be more accurate across the diamond. However, his fielding percentage was just one point below Volpe’s.
It will not be easy to trade for a player like Abrams. He still has two more years left on his contract, and his potential will demand a huge return. But if Volpe struggles, Abrams is someone to keep an eye on when the summer months come around.
Yankees Could Trade for All-Star Shortstop at Some Point This Season