The New York Yankees find themselves in an increasingly pressing situation as spring training approaches, with the critical position of third base remaining unfilled despite an otherwise productive offseason. While the organization has successfully bolstered its roster through the acquisitions of Max Fried, Cody Bellinger, and Devin Williams, the departure of Gleyber Torres has left a significant void in the infield. With Jazz Chisholm Jr.’s transition to second base confirmed, the pressure mounts to resolve the hot corner dilemma before the 2025 season commences.

The Yankees’ pursuit of infield reinforcement continues under the guidance of Brian Cashman, though financial considerations have created a complex decision-making environment. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic provides crucial insight into the organization’s current positioning in the market.

“I don’t believe they’re comfortable,” Rosenthal explains, addressing the third base situation. “The question is how much are they going to be able to spend, and Hal Steinbrenner has been pretty clear that maybe the line has been drawn now, or at least they aren’t going to go too much above where they are.”

This perspective aligns with Steinbrenner’s recent emphasis on fiscal discipline, particularly significant given the Yankees’ current position above the $300 million payroll threshold. The message is clear: additional acquisitions will require careful financial maneuvering.

Stroman’s contract creates a strategic opening

NYP
The resolution of Marcus Stroman’s situation could prove pivotal in the Yankees’ pursuit of third base help. Currently carrying an $18 million salary following his two-year, $37 million agreement last winter, Stroman’s 4.31 ERA and second-half struggles in 2024 have made him expendable in a rotation featuring Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt.

Rosenthal suggests that moving Stroman represents the Yankees’ best opportunity to create flexibility for additional moves.

“So here they are, they want to trade Stroman, and if they trade Stroman, that could open up some things, but I don’t expect if they do anything for it to be something big,” he observes.

This analysis suggests the Yankees may target more modest acquisitions rather than pursuing blockbuster deals.

Market analysis: Available third base solutions for Yankees

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With pitchers and catchers reporting February 11, the Yankees must quickly evaluate their options across free agency, trades, and internal candidates.

Free agent landscape: Limited available options

Several infielders remain available, though each presents certain risks:

Kike Hernandez – The Yankees have expressed interest in the versatile veteran, though his .643 OPS from 2022-24 raises concerns.
Jose Iglesias – He is coming off an impressive .337 batting average with the Mets, though sustainability questions persist.
Yoan Moncada – Limited to 12 games in 2024 due to injury, representing a high-risk, high-reward option.
Brendan Rodgers – Shows potential but has managed only a .716 OPS over two seasons.

Trade market: Potential for deal-making

The trade market offers several intriguing possibilities:

Nolan Arenado (St. Louis Cardinals)

ESPN

Cardinals actively shopping the veteran third baseman
Elite defense remains consistent despite declining offensive numbers
$74 million remaining over three years presents financial hurdles

Luis Arraez (San Diego Padres)

X-@TalkinBaseball_

Exceptional contact skills with two batting titles
Defensive limitations but consistent offensive production
San Diego’s payroll reduction goals could facilitate a deal

Alec Bohm (Philadelphia Phillies)

2024 All-Star with recent playoff experience
Phillies potentially open to changes following playoff disappointment

Willi Castro (Minnesota Twins)

Versatile All-Star utility player
Modest .717 OPS but provides defensive flexibility
$6.4 million salary fits within budget constraints

Internal options: Evaluating existing resources

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The Yankees maintain several in-house candidates, though each presents uncertainties:

DJ LeMahieu – Veteran presence but declining production and injury concerns
Oswaldo Cabrera – Versatility but limited offensive impact
Oswald Peraza – Former top prospect seeking to establish major league credentials

Strategic timeline: Decisions under pressure

As spring training approaches, the Yankees face increasing urgency to resolve their third base situation.

Potential pathways forward:

Execute Stroman trade to create financial flexibility for third-base acquisition
Pursue cost-effective trade for established infielder
Implement internal platoon system utilizing existing roster options
Target bounce-back candidate through free agency

The Yankees’ resolution of this situation will significantly impact their competitive positioning for 2025. Their ability to navigate these complex market dynamics while addressing positional needs may prove crucial to their championship aspirations.

As the countdown to spring training continues, the organization must balance multiple priorities: addressing their third base vacancy, maintaining roster flexibility, and positioning themselves for success in the upcoming season. The coming weeks will reveal whether their strategy yields the solution they seek for this critical roster position.

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