NEW YORK — As the trade deadline creeps closer, the New York Yankees are expected to be active — and not just in the pitching market. With injuries, underperformance, and a tightening AL East race, New York may need to bolster its infield if it hopes to sustain its postseason push.
The Yankees’ current infield configuration — anchored by DJ LeMahieu at second base, Jazz Chisholm Jr. at third, and Anthony Volpe at shortstop — has shown flashes, but overall production has lacked consistency. Veteran utility players have helped patch holes, but the front office knows a deeper upgrade could be the difference between an early October exit and a World Series run.
Here are 10 infielders the Yankees could realistically target by the July deadline.
#1. Bo Bichette (Toronto Blue Jays)
Bichette has been a consistent offensive force for the Blue Jays, boasting a .278 batting average with 8 home runs and 37 RBIs. His right-handed bat and ability to play both shortstop and second base make him an attractive option. However, acquiring him from a division rival would likely require a substantial package.
2025 Stats: .278 AVG, 8 HR, 37 RBI, .763 OPS
Yankees for Bichette: Pros
- Proven All-Star with postseason experience.
- High contact rate and solid bat speed.
- Can shift between shortstop and second.
Cons:
- High trade cost due to division rivalry and contract control.
- Below-average defensive metrics at shortstop.
- Toronto may be reluctant to deal him to New York.
#2. Eugenio Suarez (Arizona Diamondbacks)
Suarez brings power to the hot corner, with 16 home runs and 46 RBIs this season. His .230 batting average is offset by an impressive .815 OPS. With the Diamondbacks potentially looking to retool, Suárez could be a valuable addition to the Yankees’ lineup.
2025 Stats: .230 AVG, 16 HR, 46 RBI, .815 OPS
Yankees for Eugenio Suarez: Pros
- Power bat at third base—fills a current Yankees weakness.
- Durable veteran with postseason experience.
- Relatively affordable rental with leadership qualities.
Cons:
- Declining glove at third base.
- A high strikeout rate could add volatility to the lineup.
#3. Brandon Lowe (Tampa Bay Rays)
Brandon Lowe‘s left-handed power bat would provide balance to the Yankees’ lineup. He has 12 home runs and 33 RBIs, with a .248 average and .746 OPS. His versatility at second base and occasional outfield appearances add to his appeal.
2025 Stats: .248 AVG, 12 HR, 33 RBI, .746 OPS
Pros:
- Left-handed bat with pop—ideal for Yankee Stadium.
- Capable of hitting anywhere in the lineup.
- Affordable contract through 2026 with a team option.
Cons:
- Injury-prone over the last two seasons.
- Another in-division trade, which could drive up the price.
#4. Ha-Seong Kim (Tampa Bay Rays)
Kim, known for his defensive prowess, has been a steady presence in the Rays’ infield. While his offensive numbers are modest, his glove work and ability to play multiple infield positions make him a valuable asset for the Yankees. His contract status and the Rays’ willingness to deal within the division could be hurdles.
2025 Stats: In rehab following shoulder surgery. Likely to debut in June
Pros:
- Elite defensive versatility.
- Smart base runner and reliable glove.
- Moderate salary and under contract through 2026.
Cons:
- Below-average slugging.
- Padres may require pitching in return amid their own tight race.
#5. Yoan Moncada (Los Angeles Angels)
Moncada has shown flashes of his potential, with a .237 average, 6 home runs, and 19 RBIs. Currently on the injured list with right knee inflammation, his health status will be a key factor in any trade considerations.
2025 Stats: .237 AVG, 6 HR, 19 RBI, .841 OPS
Pros:
- Switch-hitter with power potential.
- Could be a bounce-back candidate in a new environment.
- Versatile across corner infield.
Cons:
- Currently injured and performance has been erratic for years.
- Large salary and durability questions remain.
#6. Miguel Vargas (Chicago White Sox)
Vargas, a young infielder with upside, is hitting .237 with 8 home runs and 26 RBIs. His ability to play both second and third base, along with his potential for growth, makes him an intriguing option for the Yankees.
2025 Stats: .237 AVG, 8 HR, 26 RBI, .730 OPS
Pros:
- Young and under team control through 2029.
- Strong bat-to-ball skills and improved plate discipline.
- Fits Yankees’ long-term needs at second or third.
Cons:
- Still a work in progress defensively.
- Could require a top-10 prospect to acquire due to age and upside.
#7. Willi Castro (Minnesota Twins)
Castro offers versatility, capable of playing multiple infield and outfield positions. He’s batting .255 with 6 home runs and 13 RBIs, and his switch-hitting ability adds value. His contract status and the Twins’ position in the standings will influence trade possibilities.
2025 Stats: .255 AVG, 6 HR, 13 RBI, 12 SB, .783 OPS
Pros:
- Switch-hitter with multi-positional flexibility.
- Brings speed, athleticism, and a strong clubhouse presence.
- Affordable arbitration contract.
Cons:
- Not a long-term fix—more of a depth piece.
- Streaky bat, lacks consistent power.
#8. Gavin Lux (Cincinnati Reds)
Lux, now with the Reds, is hitting .287 with 1 home run and 22 RBIs. His left-handed bat and experience at second base could provide the Yankees with a solid offensive boost. However, his limited power numbers may be a consideration.
2025 Stats: .287 AVG, 1 HR, 22 RBI, .776 OPS
Pros:
- Strong contact skills and left-handed bat.
- Still just 27 with room to develop.
- Reds may be open to dealing for pitching depth.
Cons:
- Limited power output despite hitter-friendly parks.
- Slight defensive decline since 2023 knee injury.
#9. Jose Caballero (Tampa Bay Rays)
Caballero is known for his speed and defensive capabilities. While his offensive numbers are not standout, his ability to play multiple infield positions and contribute on the basepaths could be valuable in a utility role.
2025 Stats: .245 AVG, 2 HR, 20 RBI, .701 OPS
Pros:
- Elite speed and solid glove.
- Valuable off the bench for late-inning situations.
- Low cost and under team control.
Cons:
- Lacks power or extra-base production.
- Limited upside as an everyday player.
#10. Ke’Bryan Hayes (Pittsburgh Pirates)
Hayes is a defensive standout at third base, with a solid .261 batting average, 8 home runs, and a .713 OPS. His glove work and potential for offensive growth make him a desirable target, though the Pirates may be hesitant to part with him.
2025 Stats: .224 AVG, 1 HR, 18 RBI, .560 OPS
Pros:
- Arguably the best defensive third baseman in baseball.
- Solid bat with improving power.
- Locked into a team-friendly extension through 2030.
Cons:
- Pirates may demand multiple MLB-ready pieces.
- Previous back injuries have limited availability.
Yankees’ next gamble
The Yankees are walking a fine line between short-term upgrades and long-term sustainability. Paul Goldschmidt’s resurgence has added stability at first base, and Anthony Volpe is growing into his role at short.
But with LeMahieu’s offensive downturn and Stanton’s return creating a DH logjam, the Yankees need to add a dynamic infield piece—someone who can hit now, field cleanly, and contribute down the stretch.
Of the names listed, Bichette, Hayes, and Kim represent ideal fits for defense and flexibility, though they’ll come at a premium. Vargas or Lux offer long-term potential with relatively low mileage, while Suárez and Lowe are instant-impact bats if the Yankees are in “win-now” mode.
As the Yankees aim to solidify their roster for a postseason push, addressing infield needs will be crucial. Each of these players offers a unique set of skills that could enhance the team’s performance. The front office will need to weigh the cost of acquisition against the potential impact, all while navigating the complexities of inter-division trades and player contracts.
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