The injury bug has once again hit the New York Yankees, and this time, its target is catcher Jose Trevino. Trevino’s offensive numbers had been way below average this season. In 55 games, he could only hit .210 with four homers, 15 RBIs, and .570 OPS. Well, it seems like the catcher was indeed suffering from an underlying injury.
Recently, the Yankees announced that catcher Jose Trevino had been battling a wrist injury all season long. It got worse with time as Trevino decided to pull the plug and head for surgery. In other words, Jose Trevino is set to miss the rest of the 2023 MLB season, which leaves a major void in the Yankees’ catching depth. Meanwhile, as the trade deadline inches closer, here are three options that could replace Trevino.
Victor Caratini, Milwaukee Brewers
Victor Caratini is a versatile player who primarily serves as a catcher but can also play at first base. He is currently under a $2.8 million contract with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are leading the NL Central division. Hence, they would not mind selling a backup catcher like Caratini during the August 1 trade deadline. Offensively, Victor has hit .248 with 5 home runs, 18 RBIs, and .710 OPS. Hence, Victor Caratini remains a prime catching candidate for the Yankees. An exchange offer could cost the Yanks relief pitcher Wandy Peralta who is under a $3.35 million contract. Hence, the trade is a win-win deal for both teams.
Austin Barnes, Los Angeles Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers offered catcher Austin Barnes a two-year extension contract worth $7 million. However, since then, his form has been on the downside. After ending the 2022 season with .704 OPS, Barnes’ OPS number has slipped to .325 this year. He has lost his charm and form coming into 2023, which might prompt the Dodgers to sell him out. For the Yankees, Austin Barner is a high-risk low-value trade candidate. He is good on a rental basis, and the Yanks might squeeze out some defensive performance from him, at least for this season. In exchange, any lowly prospect or bullpen candidate should do the job just right.
Omar Narvaez, New York Mets
The New York Yankees can also extend a helping hand to city rivals, New York Mets. Omar Narváez is a catcher known for his solid offensive skills, particularly in terms of his ability to get on base and provide consistent hitting. He also possesses respectable defensive abilities, making him a well-rounded player in his position. He is currently under a $8 million contract with the Mets. Having said that, the Mets have enough backup options if Omar Narvaez gets moved during the trade deadline. The Yankees can bid for Omar and offer reliever Ron Marinaccio in exchange.
Apart from this, the Yankees also have an in-house growing catcher, Austin Wells, who is raking the minor league at the moment. Most recently, the club promoted him to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, wherein he has hit .280 in seven games so far. Hence, if the need arises, Austin Wells is a perfect like-for-like replacement for Jose Trevino.
