Yankees strike out on another infield target as Moncada signs with Angels

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The Yankees had interest in Yoan Moncada as a potential third base option. Now, he’s heading elsewhere. According to ESPN, Moncada has agreed to a one-year, $5 million deal with the Angels. The former White Sox top prospect was viewed as a buy-low candidate with upside if he could stay healthy.

Another Yankees infield target off the board

Moncada looked like a star in the making after his 2019 season, when he hit .315 with 25 home runs and a 140 OPS+. Injuries and inconsistency prevented him from ever reaching that level again, and Chicago moved on from him this offseason.

There was some logic to the Yankees’ reported interest. As a switch-hitter, he could have taken advantage of the short porch in right field while also being a capable option from the right side. Defensively, he wasn’t a standout, but he would have given them another experienced piece for a position that remains uncertain.

It’s also fair to wonder if he would have actually helped. Moncada has flashed moments of being the player many thought he’d become, but his inability to sustain success made him a risky bet.

Moncada is now the second infielder the Yankees had interest in who signed elsewhere. Jorge Polanco, who was on their radar, opted to join the Mariners.

Third base remains an unresolved issue as spring training approaches. The Yankees still have time to make a move, but the options are dwindling.

Last Thursday, Brian Cashman indicated that keeping Jazz Chisholm Jr. at third base was always the plan, rather than moving him to second. However, that would create another hole to fill, as the departure of Gleyber Torres has already left a void up the middle with no clear solution yet.

The Yankees’ search for an answer at third continues. Moncada won’t be part of it.

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