ESPN: Yankees To Pursue $218 million Padres Infielder In Blockbuster Move
The New York Yankees have made impressive strides in rebuilding their roster after losing superstar Juan Soto in free agency. While they’ve addressed most of their needs, a few gaps remain in the bullpen and infield. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Yankees are pursuing a blockbuster trade for San Diego Padres infielder Luis Arráez, who could significantly bolster their lineup.
“They signed left-hander Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million deal, traded for closer Devin Williams and center fielder Cody Bellinger, and added Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year, $12.5 million contract,” Passan wrote. “Additionally, they strengthened their bullpen through trades and free agency. The Yankees are undoubtedly a deeper team now, but they’re still exploring options. They’ve continued discussions with the Padres about Luis Arráez and have also inquired about Gavin Lux from the Dodgers to address their second-base vacancy.”
Arráez, a three-time batting champion with three different teams, has a career slash line of .323/.372/.418 and an OPS+ of 118, consistently performing above league average in all six of his MLB seasons. Although not known for elite defense, the left-handed hitter is projected to earn about $14 million for the 2025 season. The Yankees likely wouldn’t need to give up top-tier prospects to acquire the 27-year-old infielder.