Jack Curry is widely regarded as one of the most well-connected reporters covering the New York Yankees, and he shared an intriguing piece of information during today’s broadcast. Prior to Oswald Peraza’s injury, rumors were already swirling about the Yankees seeking to bolster their bench.
They reportedly made offers to Amed Rosario and Enrique Hernandez, both around the $4 million mark. Now, with Peraza sidelined for six to eight weeks due to a shoulder injury, the Yankees are under increased pressure to find a backup infielder, and there are indications that they are actively exploring options in that regard.
Regarding whether the team already has their reserve infielder on the roster, Jack Curry expressed doubt, suggesting that he doesn’t think that player has been identified yet. This situation could potentially lead to intriguing developments for their offseason plans.
Who might the Yankees consider adding to their bench?
The Yankees are in need of infield assistance, as while their starting lineup appears solid for Opening Day, the lack of depth in the infield could pose a problem. Free agency hasn’t been favorable to the lower tiers of the market, leaving many players eager to secure a job with Opening Day looming just three weeks away. Some potential options that could interest the Yankees include Donovan Solano and Jean Segura, albeit at different price points. Additionally, J.D. Davis, recently placed on waivers by the Giants, could be considered by the Yankees.
In terms of affordability, Jean Segura emerges as the most viable option, as he is only eligible for a league-minimum deal due to contractual obligations with the Miami Marlins lasting until the end of the 2025 season. While Segura may not fulfill the requirement for a dependable infielder, his signing could help the Yankees avoid additional financial burdens, given their hefty $300 million payroll. However, if the team is open to revisiting the $4 million offers made to Rosario and Hernandez, Donovan Solano may present a more practical choice.
Donovan Solano may not be equipped to fill the shortstop position, but his versatility across the other three infield spots could significantly bolster the Yankees’ bench. His batting prowess aligns well with the Yankees’ needs, particularly his knack for getting on base due to his impressive hitting ability. While DJ LeMahieu typically serves as the leadoff hitter, Solano could also serve as an alternative top-of-the-order option in situations where the team seeks to shake things up. He provides valuable insurance for any infield, although he may be seeking regular playing time.
Given the Yankees’ inability to offer Solano a starting role, it’s worth noting that he performed at a level indicative of a starting-caliber infielder, boasting a 116 wRC+ with the Twins. Barring injuries to the infield, Solano would primarily serve as a bench player. However, with time running short to make a decision, he may be compelled to accept a reserve infield role in order to secure a place to call home. Another player worth considering for the Yankees is J.D. Davis, who was recently placed on waivers by the San Francisco Giants. However, his salary might pose a challenge for the Yankees.
Given his $6.9 million salary, if the Yankees were to claim J.D. Davis off waivers, they would be subject to a 110% tax, effectively doubling his cost to nearly $14.5 million in additional payroll. It’s unlikely that the Yankees would approve such a decision. Perhaps a trade between the Yankees and Giants could alleviate some of the luxury tax burden, but this scenario also depends on no other team ahead of the Yankees in the waiver order placing a claim on Davis. Additionally, Davis’s limited versatility may not align well with the needs of the Yankees.
The Yankees’ approach to addressing their bench situation remains uncertain. Currently, the only reserve infield options listed on their 40-man roster are Jahmai Jones and Jorbit Vivas.