Since losing Juan Soto to their cross-town rivals, the New York Yankees have been aggressive in rebuilding their squad. They have made improvements to the rotation, infield, and outfield. But have they done enough to replace Soto’s performance in the batting order?
The most recent Yankees trade rumor tied them to one of baseball’s top hitters, but another report warns supporters not to get too enthusiastic about a possible move.
Luis Arraez not viewed as a fit for New York Yankees
The New York Yankees have recently been linked to Luis Arraez, the three-time batting champion, in trade rumors. While Arraez’s impressive hitting prowess could be an upgrade to any lineup, the Yankees might be reluctant to make a deal due to concerns about his fielding ability.
Arraez, who played a combination of first base and second base last season, has struggled defensively, as evidenced by his poor fielding grades. While his bat is undeniable—he led the league in batting average in 2023—the Yankees may prioritize a more well-rounded player, especially given the value they place on defense in the infield.
The Yankees were also reportedly in discussions with the San Diego Padres for Arraez and with the Los Angeles Dodgers for Gavin Lux, but Lux has since been traded to the Cincinnati Reds. Despite the Yankees’ apparent interest, Arraez remains with the Padres for the time being, suggesting that other teams might not view him as a perfect fit either due to his defensive limitations.
The trade talk surrounding Arraez underscores the Yankees’ desire for offensive upgrades, but it also highlights their need for players who can contribute defensively across multiple positions.
