With the trade deadline approaching, the New York Yankees are trying to find ways to get out of their slump. They sit four games behind the AL East leader, the Tampa Bay Rays, entering Wednesday’s games.
The biggest concern for the Yankees (50-41) on offense is strikeouts. The Yankees struck out 17 times in splitting back-to-back games with the Rays, totaling 34 strikeouts, the most in any two-game span in franchise history. It’s not just one bad series. Before the Rays games, the team had the fifth-highest strikeout rate in MLB (23.9%).
On Wednesday, New York radio host Tommy Lagauer suggested one name that the Yankees can trade for before the deadline to solve their strikeout issue.
The analyst understands that the Yankees are too reliant on home runs, but that gets you only so deep in October. If the team is looking to reach the World Series, they must add an at-bat with good contact stuff. Lagauer proposed the name of three-time batting champion Luis Arraez, who is signed to a one-year, $12 million contract with the San Francisco Giants.
“The player to me that is a perfect fit here is Luis Arraez,” the analyst said. “He doesn’t strike out. He literally doesn’t strike out. He hits for a very high average. He is so different from what is currently on this Yankees team as far as the players they have that are mostly all or nothing.”
Arraez is bidding for his fourth batting title this season, hitting .327 with four home runs and 34 RBIs.
Lagauer also explained how Arraez could elevate this Yankees roster.
“So, you bring in Arraez, who won’t strike out,” the analyst said. “He will make contact. He will get on base. He will set up players like Ben Rice, Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger. Then they can hit the home run or the double to drive Arraez in.”
Yankees’ Potential Trade Targets Before Deadline
With less than a month until the Aug. 3 trade deadline, the Yankees have areas where they need some addressing.
The Yankees have received the worst offensive production from their catchers in baseball, making it the most important position needing an upgrade. Minnesota’s Ryan Jeffers continues to be linked, whereas veteran options such as Kyle Higashioka and Christian Vázquez have also been mentioned.
The Yankees also need depth in their bullpen with the postseason in mind. For that, they might chase Mets relievers Luke Weaver or Clay Holmes if available.
The starting pitching is also another area they could look to bolster. The obvious name is Tarik Skubal, but the deal could be highly unlikely. Instead, the team might adapt and go for a midrotation starter.
Read More News:
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in baseball, tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
