The New York Yankees are focusing on acquiring outfielder Juan Soto with hopes of securing him for the long-term future. However, general manager Brian Cashman also has other roster needs to address for the 2025 season.
One potential solution could be a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays for infielders Yandy Díaz and Brandon Lowe. Currently, the Yankees’ right side of the infield is unsettled, with second baseman Gleyber Torres set to hit free agency and the team declining Anthony Rizzo’s 2025 option.
If the Yankees manage to sign Soto to a massive contract exceeding $600 million, they’ll need cost-effective ways to fill the remaining roster spots.
Díaz had a strong 2023, earning an All-Star selection and his first Silver Slugger, though his performance dipped in 2024.
He still posted solid numbers, slashing .281/.341/.414 with 14 home runs, 31 doubles, 65 RBIs, and 55 runs in 621 plate appearances Lowe, meanwhile, had a nearly identical performance in 2024 compared to 2023, hitting .244/.311/.473 with 21 home runs, 58 RBIs, and 56 runs in 426 plate appearances.
If the Rays are looking to trim salary this winter, there’s a possibility they could entertain a trade, though Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller thinks it’s unlikely. Miller suggests the Mets, Dodgers, and Giants would also be interested in Díaz and Lowe, and while the Rays would likely prefer not to trade within the division, the Yankees’ current lack of infield options could prompt them to make an offer.
Díaz is due $10 million in 2025, the final year of his three-year, $24 million contract, while Lowe’s deal, initially worth $24 million, has increased to $34.5 million after the Rays exercised his $10.5 million club option.
