The New York Yankees have been looking to solidify their infield all winter. After letting second baseman Gleyber Torres walk as a free agent and declining the option on first baseman Anthony Rizzo's contract, they are left with a hole at third or second base. While the company line is that they expect a third baseman to come out of an internal spring training competition, at least one reporter close to the team isn't buying it.
YES Network's Meredith Markovitz believes General Manager Brian Cashman is waiting in the weeds to make a big move at third base.
"Something tells me that Brian Cashman is still waiting, I wouldn't be surprised if they find themselves somebody before Opening Day," Markovitz said on MLB Network's "Hot Stove" show.
The infield market has been congested this winter. The top free agent infielder, Alex Bregman is still looking for a multi-year, mega-millions deal. The Yankees do not seem interested in that commitment, but other teams are waiting to see how that shakes out before making other moves.
The Yankees have been linked to Gold Glove third baseman Nolan Arenado, whom the Cardinals are seemingly desperate to trade. Depending on where Bregman signs, other moves could be available. For example, would Isaac Paredes be available if he returns to the Houston Astros?
Cashman has made this kind of move before.
On the eve of the 2022 spring training, after the MLB owner's lockout was resolved, Cashman pulled the trigger on a deal that shook the Yankees' clubhouse. He dealt former top prospect Gary Sanchez and beloved third baseman Gio Urshela to the Minnesota Twins for Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Josh Donaldson and Ben Rortvedt.
However, until a move is made, the Yankees are prepared to let veteran DJ LeMahieu and youngsters Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza battle it out for the starting third base job.
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