As the New York Yankees approach a pivotal offseason, speculation swirls about how the organization plans to reshape its roster to rebound from the 2024 championship blow. Among the key narratives emerging is the potential use of one of their highly-touted young shortstop prospects as the centerpiece in a major trade. With an eye on filling immediate roster needs, the Yankees’ wealth of infield talent provides an opportunity to acquire impactful players while leveraging their farm system’s depth.

The Yankees are flush with promising shortstop prospects, a rarity for most organizations. Oswald Peraza and Roderick Arias headline this group, each offering unique skill sets and developmental timelines. This surplus allows the team to explore trading one of these prospects to address needs elsewhere, such as in the outfield or rotation.

Among the trio, Oswald Peraza is arguably the most Major League-ready. Having already logged significant time in pinstripes, Peraza showcased his defensive prowess and glimpses of offensive potential during his stints with the Yankees. Despite competing for playing time with Anthony Volpe, who has emerged as the team’s everyday shortstop, Peraza remains a valuable asset. His ability to handle multiple infield positions makes him an attractive trade chip for teams seeking immediate upgrades.

Roderick Arias represents the Yankees’ most tantalizing prospect among the trio. Signed as an international free agent in 2022, Arias is heralded for his elite athleticism and five-tool potential. Arias combines power with a strong on-base ability. His versatility allows him to play multiple infield positions, though his natural position remains shortstop. Scouts view him as a well-rounded prospect who could thrive at the Major League level within the next few seasons, making him a key figure in potential trade talks.

Although he’s still in the early stages of development, the ceiling for Arias is sky-high, and his inclusion in a trade package could sway other teams eager to bet on a future star.

Yankees’ shortstop prospect emerges as a valuable trade asset

The Yankees’ willingness to entertain moving one of these shortstops signals a shift in strategy as the team seeks to address glaring weaknesses exposed during the 2024 campaign. The lineup’s inconsistency and errors, coupled with a pitching staff that struggled, underscored the need for reinforcements. With Aaron Judge in his prime and Gerrit Cole anchoring the rotation, the team appears ready to prioritize immediate success over long-term prospect hoarding.

By offering a prized young player in trade discussions, the Yankees could target top-tier talent to complement their core. A dynamic outfielder to bolster the lineup, a frontline starter to solidify the rotation, or even a versatile infielder could be on the shopping list. This strategy highlights the organization’s focus on maintaining its status as a perennial contender in the highly competitive American League East.

Potential trade targets for Yankees

While the Yankees have not publicly disclosed specific trade targets, several names have been linked to the team in offseason rumors. Acquiring such talent would likely require parting with top-tier prospects, making Peraza or Arias valuable trade pieces. Below is an analysis of these potential acquisitions, outlining their respective pros and cons.

Garrett Crochet, LHP, Chicago White Sox

Crochet has demonstrated ace-level performance and is under team control for two more years, making him a valuable addition to the rotation. Left-Handed Depth: Adding a left-handed pitcher of Crochet’s caliber would diversify and strengthen the Yankees’ starting rotation.

However, Crochet has faced injury challenges, which could pose a risk to his long-term availability.
Securing him would likely require a substantial trade package, potentially including more top prospects.

Nolan Arenado, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals

Arenado is a 10-time Gold Glove winner, offering elite defense at third base. He provides a reliable right-handed bat, capable of delivering power and average. The player has expressed willingness to switch positions, which could address multiple infield needs and many see the Yankees as his trade destination.

But at 34, Arenado may be approaching the decline phase of his career. The Cardinals owe him $52 million over the next three years, impacting the Yankees’ payroll flexibility.
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Brandon Lowe, 2B, Tampa Bay Rays

Lowe offers significant power from the second base position, enhancing lineup depth. With a $10.5 million salary for 2025, he is a cost-effective option for the Yankees. However, Lowe has a history of injuries, which could affect his availability. Executing trades within the division can be challenging due to competitive dynamics.

Devin Williams, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers

Williams, the 2024 National League Reliever of the Year, would significantly bolster the bullpen. He led MLB with 49 saves last season, providing a reliable closing option. But he has struggled in the postseason, which could be a concern for the Yankees. As a potential one-year rental, his long-term impact may be limited.

Cody Bellinger, OF/1B, Chicago Cubs

He can play both outfield and first base, providing flexibility to the Yankees’ roster. His left-handed bat would add balance to the predominantly right-handed lineup. Bellinger is a former Gold Glove winner, offering strong defense in multiple positions.

Bellinger exercised his $27.5 million player option for 2025, making him a significant financial investment. With a likely mega Juan Soto deal in the offing, the Yankees are forced to consider his financial impact.
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Lucas Erceg, RHP, Kansas City Royals

Erceg’s addition would strengthen the Yankees’ relief corps, addressing a key area of need. As a relatively unproven player, he would come at a lower financial cost. But the pitcher has a brief major league track record, making his potential impact uncertain. His minor league career has been marked by high walk rates, which could be problematic at the MLB level.

Adolis Garcia, OF, Texas Rangers

He has demonstrated significant home run potential, enhancing the Yankees’ offensive firepower. His speed and defensive capabilities add value in the outfield. But Garcia’s high strikeout rates and low on-base percentages may affect the Yankees’ lineup consistency. His offensive output has been inconsistent, leading to concerns about reliability.

The Yankees’ potential use of a young shortstop prospect as a trade centerpiece reflects the organization’s intent to recalibrate and contend in 2024. By leveraging the depth of their farm system, they have an opportunity to address their needs while remaining competitive. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as the offseason unfolds, eager to see whether the team’s calculated risk pays off in the form of a stronger, more balanced roster. As one of baseball’s most storied franchises, the Yankees know the stakes are high—and they appear ready to act decisively.

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