Yankees contender for multi-role standout with explosive offensive tools
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Follow UsNEW YORK — The New York Yankees are viewed as a contender for a player whose offensive production last season matched that of their own Jazz Chisholm Jr.
The 31-year-old veteran, under contract through 2025 with a club option for 2026, could give the Yankees a much-needed balance of power and versatility if discussions progress into a deal.
According to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, the Yankees are among the potential landing spots for Tampa Bay Rays infielder Brandon Lowe, a proven left-handed slugger who fits multiple needs on the Yankees’ roster. The report suggests that the Rays could shop Lowe this offseason as they explore ways to gain value before his contract expires.
Tampa Bay to deal power-hitting infielder
Lowe enters the final guaranteed year of his seven-year, $34 million contract, with a 2026 club option for $11.5 million still in place. His 2024 campaign marked a major rebound in health and performance, as he appeared in 134 games and delivered strong production that now makes him one of Tampa Bay’s most attractive trade assets.
The Athletic reported the timing could be right for the Rays: “The 31-year-old will be a free agent after next season and if they’re ever going to trade him, the time is now. He’s coming off his healthiest year since 2021, playing in 134 games while putting up a SLG of .477.”
The Rays have long been known for dealing key contributors before they reach free agency. With Lowe’s value at a high point following a healthy season, Tampa Bay appears poised to maximize his market. The Yankees are among several teams keeping a close eye on his availability.
Left-handed power meets Yankee Stadium dimensions
Lowe’s offensive profile makes him an intriguing fit for the Yankees. Last season, he hit .256 with a .307 on-base percentage and .477 slugging percentage, along with 31 home runs and 83 RBIs. His 114 wRC+ ranked above league average, underscoring his ability to contribute steady power in the middle of a lineup.
Those power totals stood out among second basemen across Major League Baseball. Lowe’s 31 homers tied with the Yankees’ own Jazz Chisholm Jr. for the most at the position. He also finished ahead of Arizona’s Ketel Marte and Houston’s Jose Altuve.
For the Yankees, Lowe’s left-handed bat could thrive at Yankee Stadium, where the short porch in right field often turns fly balls into home runs. His pull-heavy approach and natural loft in his swing match the park’s dimensions perfectly, suggesting an immediate offensive boost if the deal materializes.
Defensive versatility solves multiple problems
Beyond his power, Lowe brings positional flexibility that aligns with the Yankees’ needs. He is primarily a second baseman but can also handle first base and both corner outfield spots when needed. That kind of versatility holds major value for a Yankees roster that has struggled to stay healthy in recent years.
The Yankees expect Oswaldo Cabrera to return next season and still have Jose Caballero under contract. However, neither offers the same offensive potential as Lowe. Cabrera’s strength lies in his defensive adaptability, while Lowe provides legitimate middle-of-the-order power along with the ability to shift positions.
Manager Aaron Boone would gain flexibility in lineup construction. Lowe’s presence would allow the Yankees to mix and match against right-handed pitching while ensuring steady offensive production from multiple defensive alignments.
Lowe’s financial fit makes sense for Yankees
Lowe’s contract aligns well with the Yankees’ current payroll structure. His salary remains affordable relative to his production, allowing the front office to make other offseason additions. For a club balancing roster upgrades and financial discipline, Lowe represents a low-risk, high-reward acquisition.
Tampa Bay, meanwhile, faces its familiar dilemma of whether to retain a veteran approaching free agency or trade him while his value is strong. The Rays rarely allow players to walk for nothing, and moving Lowe now would ensure a solid return.
While trades within the American League East are uncommon, the Yankees and Rays have completed smaller deals before. Tampa Bay might hesitate to strengthen a division rival, but their decision will ultimately depend on the strength of New York’s offer.
Missing piece for championship aspirations?
The Yankees’ interest in Lowe highlights their intent to reshape the roster after another underwhelming postseason finish. General manager Brian Cashman’s front office is focused on improving offensive balance and minimizing the depth concerns that derailed previous seasons.
Lowe’s combination of power, versatility, and durability addresses several of those issues. His left-handed bat adds balance to a lineup often heavy on right-handed hitters, while his experience in pressure situations fits well within the Yankees’ veteran clubhouse.
The Athletic specifically identified both the Yankees and Houston Astros as possible suitors, noting, “The Yankees and Astros could potentially have interest.” With two postseason regulars eyeing the same player, competition could drive up Tampa Bay’s asking price.
Lowe’s 31 home runs last season from the second base position equaled Chisholm’s total, underscoring the type of production the Yankees could add without committing long-term dollars. His ability to fill multiple positions would also provide insurance against potential injuries.
A trade that could define the offseason
As teams prepare for the offseason trade window, Lowe’s situation could develop into one of the winter’s most intriguing storylines. His strong 2024 campaign, positional versatility, and contract status make him a realistic target for contenders seeking lineup depth.
For the Yankees, acquiring Lowe would fill several holes in one move. He fits their offensive blueprint and their defensive philosophy while maintaining payroll flexibility. The potential addition of his left-handed power would immediately deepen their lineup and shorten the gap between New York and top AL rivals.
Whether the Rays decide to move their infielder remains uncertain, but the Yankees’ interest is genuine. With his rare blend of power, versatility, and consistent production, Brandon Lowe embodies the kind of player New York has often sought to complement its star core. His game-changing offensive tools make him a prime candidate to help the Yankees return to serious championship contention in 2026.
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