The Yankees’ search for catching help could end up turning into a battle with a division rival, and Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer thinks the Tampa Bay Rays may have the edge.
New York’s need behind the plate is clear. Austin Wells has struggled offensively this season, and the Yankees are looking for an upgrade at catcher. But they may not be the only AL East team with eyes on the same target.
Rymer predicted on Tuesday that the Rays will outbid the Yankees for Hunter Goodman of the Colorado Rockies.
“If nothing else, though, here's why this fit is perfect: Goodman's 30 homers through 93 games this year is more than the Rays have gotten from their catchers in the last three seasons combined,” Rymer wrote.
Goodman has put together a big season, hitting 30 home runs with an .881 OPS in 93 games. He is under club control through the 2029 season, so Colorado does not have to move him. The Rockies will have to decide whether they see the 26-year-old as part of their future or as a trade chip.
“He must decide whether Hunter Goodman [Paul DePodesta] is a can't-miss building block, or a can't-miss trade chip. There are surely more than a couple teams crossing their fingers for the latter,” Rymer added. “With back-to-back All-Star selections to his name and 30 home runs already this year, Goodman is theoretically the prized hitter on the market.”
If Goodman does become available, both the Yankees and Rays have a straightforward need at catcher. The question, as Rymer sees it, is which club is willing to make the strongest offer.
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