The New York Yankees’ offseason has been marked by key acquisitions, including Max Fried, Cody Bellinger, Devin Williams, and Paul Goldschmidt. However, with the departure of Gleyber Torres in free agency, they may seek to add an infielder.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Yankees are “actively trying to deal” Marcus Stroman and could use him to secure infield help. Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer proposed a trade that not only moves Stroman but also brings Luis Arráez from the San Diego Padres to New York.
In the trade, the Yankees would receive second baseman Luis Arráez, while the Padres would acquire right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman, right-handed pitcher Will Warren (the Yankees’ No. 5 prospect), and cash. Stroman, who signed a two-year, $37 million deal last offseason, also has an $18 million vesting option for 2026.
After struggling to replicate his All-Star form in 2023, trading him could become a top priority for the Yankees. To entice the Padres to part with Arráez, the Yankees would need to cover some of Stroman’s salary and include a top prospect.
Arráez, set to be a free agent after the season, could be available if the Padres believe he will leave in free agency. Spotrac projects he could sign a nine-year, $154 million deal.
If the Yankees see Arráez as a long-term option, they have the financial capacity to pursue him. Although defensively he is below average at second base, his strong offensive performance makes up for his shortcomings in the field.
