The injury bug has hammered the New York Yankees during spring training.
Designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton arrived at spring training with pain in both elbows. On Saturday, Bryan Hoch from MLB.com reported that Stanton is unsure when he will be able to resume baseball activities. If surgery is needed to address the problem, Stanton would miss the 2025 season.
Third base was already a potential black hole in the lineup. DJ LeMahieu had entered spring training as the favorite to be the Opening Day third baseman. A strained calf will likely result in LeMahieu landing on the injured list at the start of the season.
This leaves the Yankees in a difficult spot. There is a distinct need for someone at either second or third, depending on where the Yankees slot Jazz Chisholm defensively. To that end, Eric Boland of Newsday reported that the Yankees are searching the market for a right-handed bat.
The Yankees have already been linked to one such hitter. Designated hitter J.D. Martinez has reportedly been on the Yankees radar since news broke regarding Stanton's injury. However, the Yankees reportedly do not want to bring Martinez on board unless Stanton is lost for the season.
The other options in free agency are less inspiring. Whit Merrifield is capable of playing second, third and both corner outfield positions. However, the 36-year-old posted a mediocre .222/.311/.314 batting line in his 335 plate appearances between the Phillies and Braves, hitting four homers and nine doubles while stealing 17 bases. While Merrifield would provide speed and defensive flexibility, he is nearing the end of the line.
Outfielder Adam Duvall is also coming off of a disappointing 2024 season. He posted a .182/.245/.323 batting line in his 330 plate appearances with the Braves, hitting 11 homers and 10 doubles. He is reportedly looking for at least $3M for 2025, having turned down a one-year offer worth $1M from the Royals.
The Yankees' best bet may be to wait until spring training ends. There may be a minor-league free agent who opts out of their contract in hope of a major league deal. Otherwise, the Yankees will be rooting among the scraps in free agency, hoping to find an upgrade.
