The New York Yankees are reportedly among the teams that have reached out to the St. Louis Cardinals regarding the availability of infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman, according to The Athletic’s Katie Woo. This comes after news earlier today that the Los Angeles Dodgers have also inquired about the versatile switch-hitter.
Tommy Edman’s Current Status:
Edman, 29, has yet to make his 2024 season debut in the majors following wrist surgery last fall. His recovery has taken longer than anticipated, and while he has started a rehab assignment at the Double-A level, he has only been able to participate as a designated hitter (DH). Given this, any potential suitor would need assurance of Edman’s ability to return to the field before finalizing a trade.
Last season, Edman posted a .248/.307/.399 batting line in 137 games for the Cardinals. While those numbers may not be eye-catching, his career wRC+ of 99 indicates league-average offensive production. However, it’s his defensive versatility and prowess that make him a valuable asset, having played every position on the diamond except first base and catcher.
Yankees’ Interest and Team Dynamics:
Despite the recent acquisition of Jazz Chisholm Jr., who brings versatility and a solid 103 wRC+ to the Yankees, Edman’s potential addition could still be beneficial. Yankees manager Aaron Boone has indicated plans to use Chisholm at third base, a position he has never played in the majors. Edman’s experience at third base (94 games in the majors) would provide a more seasoned option at the hot corner, while allowing Chisholm to serve as a super-utility player.
The Yankees have struggled to get consistent production from most of their lineup, with Juan Soto and Aaron Judge being the notable exceptions. Edman’s ability to slot in at various positions could help alleviate this issue by providing flexibility and allowing the team to optimize matchups. Additionally, his presence could enable the Yankees to consider trading other players, such as Gleyber Torres or Trent Grisham, to address their need for bullpen help.
Potential Trade Dynamics:
The Cardinals are reportedly seeking “cost-controlled major-league starting pitching” in exchange for Edman. Woo suggests that the Cardinals might target Yankees’ southpaw Nestor Cortes, who is also under team control through the 2025 season. Cortes has posted a 4.13 ERA with a 3.99 FIP in 22 starts this year, making him a valuable asset for the Yankees.
However, it remains uncertain if the Yankees would be willing to part with Cortes or any of their starting pitchers, especially as they consider acquiring another arm to manage Luis Gil’s innings with a bullpen assignment in the second half of the season.
Looking Ahead:
As the trade deadline approaches, both the Yankees and Dodgers will weigh their options and the potential impact of adding Edman to their rosters. For the Yankees, acquiring Edman could provide much-needed depth and versatility, while helping to navigate the uncertainties surrounding free agency for key players like Soto, Torres, Alex Verdugo, and possibly Anthony Rizzo in 2025.
Fans and analysts will be closely watching as discussions progress, eager to see if the Yankees can secure Edman’s services and bolster their lineup for the stretch run and beyond.
