The New York Yankees are no strangers to making waves at the trade deadline, and with last season’s flurry of activity still fresh in fans' minds, the question looms: Will they pull off another blockbuster this year?
While it's early in the season and the Bronx is still blanketed in snow, the Yankees' needs could become clearer by July. With starting shortstop Anthony Volpe beginning the year on the injured list, the middle infield might be an area to watch for potential changes.
Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller has made a bold prediction: by the trade deadline, the Yankees could swing a deal for Washington Nationals' All-Star shortstop, CJ Abrams. The 25-year-old speedster has been turning heads with his impressive blend of power and speed, averaging 19 home runs and 36 stolen bases over the past three seasons. His left-handed bat could be a perfect fit for Yankee Stadium, especially if he can consistently pull the ball into the short porch.
However, there’s a wrinkle in the plan. Abrams is seen more as a long-term second baseman rather than a shortstop. Unless his defensive skills take a big leap forward early in the season, the Yankees might hesitate to bring him in to replace Volpe or Jose Caballero at short.
Adding another layer of intrigue, Jazz Chisholm Jr., the primary second baseman, has his sights set on joining the 50/50 club. Yet, his frequent injuries and impending free agency add uncertainty to the Yankees' infield puzzle. Even with top prospect George Lombard Jr. potentially ready for his MLB debut, the Yankees might still be on the lookout for middle infield reinforcements this summer.
As the season unfolds, the Yankees' strategy will become clearer, but one thing's for sure: the Bronx Bombers are always in the mix when it comes to making headlines.