Yankees Scouting Familiar Face as Possible Trade Target

Kiner-Falefa spent two seasons in New York and was often at the center of the fan debate over shortstop defense and lineup depth. Now, he might represent a path to stability for a Yankees infield that has looked anything but.

This version of Kiner-Falefa is hitting better than the one Yankees fans remember.

Through Sunday, he’s slashing .264/.318/.395 with five homers, 26 RBI, and a career-best 103 wRC+. He’s played shortstop, third base, second base, and even the outfield for Pittsburgh, while posting positive defensive marks at third, where the Yankees have lacked both production and consistency.

A reunion wouldn’t come with long-term risk. After the season, Kiner-Falefa is a free agent, and the Pirates are positioned to be sellers.

If acquired, he could push Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to second base, his best defensive position, and move DJ LeMahieu into a reduced role off the bench. Even if the Yankees see him more as a utility player, Kiner-Falefa would give Aaron Boone a dependable right-handed bat and a defensive upgrade over Oswald Peraza.

The question, of course, is whether that kind of move moves the needle.

The Yankees need help. Their infield has been inconsistent on both sides of the ball. But is Kiner-Falefa a solution?

Still, minor upgrades matter for a team clinging to its spot atop the AL East.

And if the price is right, this might be one the Yankees make. Again.