Joel Sherman, MLB insider for the New York Post, discussed the futures of DJ LeMahieu and Gleyber Torres with the Yankees as the trade deadline nears. On his “Pinstripe Post” show, the insider predicted that both players are likely to stay with the team beyond the July 30 deadline.
Sherman pointed to LeMahieu’s recent poor performance and sizable contract as obstacles to a potential trade. LeMahieu, who is under contract through next season with a $15 million salary, is hitting .188/.284/.214 with no home runs in 135 plate appearances since returning from injury.
Regarding Torres, Sherman indicated that the Yankees might find it challenging to secure an adequate replacement, thus making a trade less probable.
Sherman highlighted third base as the Yankees’ main area for improvement, with Tampa Bay’s Isaac Parades emerging as a potential target. However, he noted that acquiring Parades from a division rival would likely necessitate trading top prospect Spencer Jones and additional assets.
Sherman also expressed skepticism that Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner would be willing to absorb the remaining portion of LeMahieu’s contract, which extends through 2026, to facilitate a trade.
Yankees likely to hold on to Torres
Sherman suggests the Yankees‘ optimal strategy to enhance their offense at the trade deadline might hinge on Gleyber Torres regaining his form. Despite Torres’ current struggles, reflected in his .231/.307/.347 batting line and 90 OPS+, Sherman believes the team will likely hold onto him.
Sherman highlights Torres’ potential, noting his significant home run contributions for the team since 2019. He speculates that the conclusion of the trade deadline might relieve some pressure on Torres, potentially leading to better performance.
Sherman concludes that the Yankees may prioritize revitalizing Torres’ offensive output as their most effective means of improvement, rather than pursuing external trade solutions.
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
It figures the Yanks have no intention of improving the team as constructed. Hal and Cashman have backed themselves into a corner, which is not surprising to me. This is a dead franchise, lead by an inept owner and a weak GM, which has always lived off the exploits of The “Stick”, Gene Micheal.