Report: Yankees trade for Padres OF Greg Allen

The New York Yankees have reportedly obtained a new outfielder and, potentially, moved on from Brett Gardner once and for all. 

MLB insider Joel Sherman tweeted on Wednesday that the Yankees have traded with the San Diego Padres for outfielder Greg Allen. In return, the Padres received minor league left-handed relief pitcher James Reeves. 

Once a promising prospect with the Cleveland Indians, Allen joined the Padres in late August as part of the deal that also involved Cleveland starting pitcher Mike Clevinger making a move to the West Coast. The Indians previously demoted both Clevinger and fellow starter Zach Plesac to their alternate training site after the pair violated COVID-19 protocols by going out for a social dinner during a road-trip stop in Chicago. 

Per Baseball-Reference, Allen played in only one game with his new club and was recently designated for assignment. The speedster hit .154 with one home run and four RBI in 16 total contests during the pandemic-shortened season but is more known for his defensive skills and can play every outfield position. 

As Pete Caldera explained for the Asbury Park Press, the Yankees declined the team option linked with Gardner's contract following the World Series. It's believed Wednesday's trade provides a clear message that the Bronx Bombers aren't interested in a homecoming involving Gardner.