In a strategic move to bolster their bullpen, the New York Yankees have engaged in a prospect exchange with the Los Angeles Dodgers, acquiring left-handed reliever Victor Gonzalez and infield prospect Jorbit Vivas in exchange for shortstop prospect Trey Sweeney.
A win-win transaction
This transaction, completed on Monday, not only addresses the Yankees’ requirement for a left-handed presence in the bullpen but also aids the Dodgers in clearing two valuable spots on their 40-man roster. These openings are essential for accommodating Shohei Ohtani’s monumental 10-year, $700 million contract and securing a place for reliever Joe Kelly.
Trey Sweeney, though not yet on the Yankees’ 40-man roster, has been a notable prospect for the team since being drafted in the first round in 2021. His entire 2023 season was spent at Double-A Somerset, where he exhibited promising skills with a .252 batting average, a .777 OPS, and an impressive 20 stolen bases in 100 games. However, given the Yankees’ organizational depth at shortstop, the decision to include Sweeney in this trade reflects a strategic move to address other areas of need.
The impact
On the other side of the deal, Victor Gonzalez, a 28-year-old left-handed reliever, brings valuable experience to the Yankees’ bullpen. Despite undergoing arthroscopic elbow surgery that sidelined him for the entirety of 2022, Gonzalez made a successful return last season, participating in 34 games. With a career 3.22 ERA in parts of three seasons in the major leagues and a notable 58.2 percent ground-ball rate, Gonzalez provides a reliable left-handed option for the Yankees.
Moreover, the acquisition of Jorbit Vivas adds depth to the Yankees’ infield. Rated as the Dodgers’ No. 10 prospect by MLB.com, the 22-year-old infielder concluded the 2023 season at Triple-A, hitting .226 with a .638 OPS across 26 games. Vivas, recognized for his high contact rate and minimal strikeout percentage (10.6 percent, leading all qualified Double-A hitters in 2023), is anticipated to contribute significantly, primarily playing at second and third base, with a potential Triple-A start in the upcoming season.
This trade not only fortifies the Yankees’ roster but also ensures flexibility with their 40-man roster, which now stands at 37. This maneuver leaves room for potential further offseason moves without the immediate need to open additional roster spots.
