Report: Yankees Linked To Blockbuster Trade With Padres

The New York Yankees are reportedly in discussions with the San Diego Padres about a potential blockbuster trade for infielder Luis Arráez, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. 

Bringing elite contact hitting and versatility, Arráez has won three batting titles with three different teams and carries a career slash line of .323/.372/.418. 

With Gleyber Torres departing in free agency, the Yankees see Arráez as a cost-effective upgrade at second base, especially given his projected $14 million salary in his final year of arbitration. 

Meanwhile, the Padres are under pressure to shed payroll and may entertain offers centered around young talent, including Yankees prospects Will Warren or Jasson Dominguez.

Luis Arraez is everything the Yankees need right now. Contact needs to balance power.

— Rubén Sierra (@itsrubensierra) January 6, 2025

Acquiring Arráez would add to an already transformative offseason for New York, which has brought in key players like Max Fried, Cody Bellinger, Devin Williams, and veteran slugger Paul Goldschmidt. 

However, there are concerns about his defensive limitations at second base, prompting the Yankees to weigh their options. 

Hearing at least for now Luis Arraez is not seen as a fit for Yankees

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 6, 2025

It's also worth noting that another MLB insider, Jon Heyman, is now reporting that Arraez is not seen as a fit for the Yankees.

Still, it's a situation and rumor to keep an eye on.

Photo Credit: Orlando Ramirez-Imagn Images