The New York Yankees appear to be exploring ways to strengthen their infield, with Gavin Lux of the Los Angeles Dodgers emerging as a potential trade target. According to Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated, the Yankees expressed interest in Lux weeks ago, though the Seattle Mariners are reportedly more aggressive in their pursuit of the versatile infielder.
Lux’s Current Situation
Lux, 27, hit .250 with 10 home runs and 50 RBIs over 139 games in 2024 after recovering from a torn ACL that sidelined him for the entire 2023 season. While his numbers were solid, the Dodgers’ offseason acquisitions have significantly reduced his path to regular playing time.
- Mookie Betts is shifting to a full-time shortstop role.
- The Dodgers re-signed Tommy Edman, who has a strong defensive pedigree and positional flexibility.
- Los Angeles also added Hye-Seong Kim, a standout Korean infielder.
These moves leave Lux in a crowded Dodgers infield, making him a plausible trade candidate.
Why Lux Fits the Yankees
The Yankees are in need of infield reinforcements:
- Gleyber Torres left in free agency, creating a significant gap.
- DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera struggled to provide consistent production last season.
- Lux, a left-handed hitter, could thrive at Yankee Stadium with its inviting right-field dimensions.
Lux’s ability to play multiple infield positions also adds flexibility to a Yankees roster that has undergone significant changes this offseason.
Mariners’ Aggression in Trade Talks
While the Yankees have shown interest, the Seattle Mariners seem to be more actively pursuing Lux. Seattle has made bold moves in recent offseasons to contend in the highly competitive AL West, and Lux could add another versatile and young piece to their roster
Dodgers’ Perspective
For the Dodgers, trading Lux would provide an opportunity to clear their infield logjam and potentially address other areas of need, such as bullpen depth or high-value prospects for the future. However, Lux still has untapped potential and is under team control, meaning the Dodgers won’t deal him lightly.
Outlook
Whether the Yankees or Mariners ultimately acquire Lux—or if the Dodgers decide to hold onto him—will likely depend on the trade return. Lux’s skill set and potential to rebound into a more impactful player make him a valuable commodity. For the Yankees, landing Lux would help offset their infield losses and bolster a roster that fell short in the 2024 World Series.
