The New York Yankees let Gleyber Torres sign with the Detroit Tigers. Torres noted that he thought the Yankees had other priorities and he was not on that list, according to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch.
Regardless of what the Yankees thought of Torres, they now have a hole to fill at second base. One option would be to move Jazz Chisholm Jr. over or allow D.J. LeMahieu to take over. However, FanSided’s James Nolan proposed that the Yankees could trade for San Diego Padres star Luis Arraez.
Arráez is a three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger and three-time batting champion. He has won three consecutive batting titles with three different teams. Why not try to make it four titles with four teams? Spotrac projects Arráez to sign a nine-year, $154 million deal when he hits free agency after the season.
Arráez is not an elite defender. He has 307 starts at second base in his career and has a minus-seven outs above average. However, Torres’ departure leaves the Yankees in need of a leadoff hitter. There are not many leadoff hitters better than Arráez.
“The 27-year-old has 409 games in the leadoff spot. He’s posted a .323 batting average and a .364 on base percentage when leading off,” wrote Nolan. “With runners in scoring position, Arraez holds a staggering .369 batting average.”
Arráez will be a free agent after this season and the Padres could be looking to get some return before he potentially walks. He would not be a cheap addition, but if the Yankees see him as a long-term option they might be willing to pay the price.
“Giving up prospects is always a risk, but the Yankees have a window to win a World Series now. They have one of the best pitching staffs in MLB, with Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, and Luis Gil headlining,” wrote Nolan. “The lineup looks very good, but it could use one more piece. Arraez leading off in 2025 for the Yankees would be the perfect way to complement (Aaron) Judge and the rest of the sluggers.”
