The New York Yankees face a significant setback as their starting catcher, Jose Trevino, undergoes surgery to repair a tear in his right wrist. Despite managing the injury since spring training, the 30-year-old player will be sidelined for the rest of the season. In the midst of this news, important outlets reports that the Yankees are eyeing potential additions to their roster—Jack Flaherty and Ivan Herrera—who could join the team in the near future.
Trevino played in 55 games with a .210 batting average and a .257 On-Base Percentage (OBP). While his offensive performance wasn’t outstanding, his defensive skills set him apart, leaving a notable void for the Yankees to fill. In his absence, the Yankees turned to backup catcher Kyle Higashioka, who showed a .216 average and a .253 OBP, along with five home runs, 25 RBIs, and a 65 wRC+. Although he’s a serviceable option, the Yankees are seeking additional support due to his comparatively weaker defensive capabilities.
Yankees eyeing Herrera and Flaherty
St. Louis Cardinals’ right-handed catcher, Ivan Herrera, emerges as a potential solution for the Yankees’ catching issues. Herrera, aged 23, has played in 19 professional games, boasting a commendable .244 average and .319 OBP. He performed remarkably well in the eight games with the Cardinals this season, displaying a .348 batting average with a .423 OBP, two home runs, and a 135 wRC+. Beyond impressive stats, Herrera’s potential shines through metrics like a 57.1% hard-hit rate and 7.1% barrel rate across 23 at-bats this year. His defensive skills are also solid, with a 49.2% strike rate—an improvement from last year’s 45.1%.
The Yankees’ need for improvement is evident, as they currently hold a disappointing 50-47 record and are in last place in the American League East. Their goal for the trade deadline is to secure a starting pitcher and a two-way left fielder, and one potential blockbuster deal with the Cardinals could address both needs. The Yankees could acquire Jack Flaherty, a starting pitcher with an impressive track record despite some injury setbacks, and Dylan Carlson, an athletic outfielder with future potential.
Flaherty, an impending free agent, has posted a 4.29 ERA in 18 starts this season and has shown promise in his recent performances. Meanwhile, Carlson, aged 24, has reached base at a .344 clip and possesses the potential to be an average major-league player on both sides of the ball. Acquiring both Flaherty and Carlson from the Cardinals could significantly improve the Yankees’ chances of fighting for a Wild Card spot.
Currently, the Yankees are just three-and-a-half games out of a Wild Card spot, making the trade deadline a crucial period for the team’s potential playoff aspirations.
What are your thoughts on this potential move? Leave your comment below.
