The New York Yankees have recently been in the trade news in the offseason after acquiring Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. This came after an unsuccessful attempt to bag star outfielder Juan Soto, who signed a record deal with the Mets. While the almost similar offer that was made to Soto was overlooked, the Yankees are keen on seeking a competitive edge in 2025.
The trading of right-hander Cody Poteet to the Cubs, along with the Cubs covering part of Bellinger’s salary, sets the stage for the Yankees to explore additional trades and free-agent signings. With three key positions still needing attention, i.e., first base, another outfield slot, and potentially filling gaps in the infield, the Yankees should consider the following three deals.
Three Hot Deals New York Yankees Should Prefer
1. Trade for Christian Walker (1B)
One of the most pressing needs for the Yankees is to fill the first base position. Christian Walker stands out as a prime target for this role. The former Arizona Diamondbacks slugger had a stellar 2024 season, hitting 26 home runs. Although he missed a portion of the season due to injury, he is good now.
Go get Christian Walker @Yankees pic.twitter.com/Wlvje0Hh0o
— Blackwing (@Jblackwing) December 17, 2024
Walker is expected to be more affordable than other power-hitting options, such as Pete Alonso or Paul Goldschmidt. And he seems a perfect match for the Yankees’ defensive arsenal after their disappointing performance in the World Series.
2. Sign Nolan Arenado (3B)
Another crucial department that the Yankees couldn’t ignore is third base. With Jazz Chisholm Jr. possibly transitioning from third to second and the executives eyeing long-term solutions, signing Nolan Arenado would be a significant coup. Arenado is among the premier third basemen in MLB.
Cardinals' infielder Nolan Arenado is reportedly open to moving to FIRST BASE for his potential new team😳
— Fireside Yankees (@FiresideYankees) November 26, 2024
Should the Yankees deal for the veteran infielder and stick him at first?🤔#Yankees pic.twitter.com/wxsz0qUUNM
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MLB stories via Google! Follow Us
Moreover, with the St. Louis Cardinals reportedly willing to move Arenado, the Yankees have a realistic shot of acquiring him. Signing Arenado would create a dynamic middle of the lineup, complementing Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton.
3. Acquire Adolis Garcia (OF)
To round out their 2025 season, the New York Yankees should explore a trade for Texas Rangers’ outfielder Adolis Garcia. Following the acquisition of Bellinger, who will primarily play center field, adding Garcia to the outfield mix could provide the Yankees with another powerful bat.
This will also give them flexibility to move Bellinger to first base if needed.
The Rangers and Adolis Garcia have avoided arbitration with a two-year deal! pic.twitter.com/tLrZjG3usJ
— Rangers Nation ⚾️ (@rangers__nation) February 8, 2024
Garcia had a breakout year with the Rangers, where he hit 32 home runs and stole 16 bases. Another aspect of acquiring him would be the high trade cost. But after missing on Soto, the New York Yankees have enough to invest in Garcia.
However, to ensure they are real contenders in the 2025 season, additional strategic moves are crucial. The acquisitions of Christian Walker, Nolan Arenado, and Adolis Garcia would fill the gaps in both the infield and outfield.
Also Read: “Will Replace Soto Very Easily “ – Yankees Fans Hyped As Cody Bellinger Seals Deal In The Bronx
