Yankees should target this surging third baseman

The New York Yankees’ third base dilemma has become unsightly in recent weeks. With Oswaldo Cabrera out for the season, the Yankees are left with a medley of unreliable options to choose from. Of all the names on this list (Jorbit Vivas, Pablo Reyes, Oswald Peraza and DJ LeMahieu), none of them own a batting average over .192, and each suffer with dwindling power potential. 

Realizing this could be the fatal flaw of his otherwise-powerful team, Yankees GM Brian Cashman told MLB Network Radio (h/t NJ.com) about his intentions to continue his search for a suitable right-handed-hitting infielder. That endeavor had been one of his priorities over the offseason, but it was seemingly shelved while the team experimented with platooning Cabrera and Peraza. The market for an impact third baseman isn’t exactly brimming with opportunity, but there is one glowing option who has emerged in recent days who the Yankees should strongly consider pursuing.

Miami Marlins third baseman Connor Norby was the Orioles' No. 7 prospect as recently as last year. In his 2024 rookie campaign, Norby hit .236 with nine home runs in 176 at-bats for the O’s and Marlins, displaying some promising power potential. This season, his power has wavered after returning from injury, but he is beginning to excel as a contact hitter. Norby is slashing .276/.319/.425 with three home runs in 127 at-bats since his return. However, more recently, Norby has shown signs of turning a corner.

Despite an 0-for-4 game on Wednesday (a game in which he took a pitch to the head but never exited until the victory was sealed), Norby is still hitting .321 with an on-base percentage of .387 over the last seven games (.315 AVG with .351 OBP over the last 15). This is shaping up to be a breakout season for Norby, which could reward the Yankees nicely if they decide to pursue him.

The Marlins, who once again sit at the bottom of the NL East, will undoubtedly be sellers at the trade deadline. Norby, who combines plus power and exceptional contact-hitting talent with ample speed, will likely receive plenty of attention if he continues on his current trajectory. As things stand, Norby would represent a vast improvement over the Yankees' existing options.