New York Yankees veteran outfielder Aaron Hicks has been the subject of trade rumors for some time, and his recent uncomfortable body language during an interview has reignited speculation.
Aaron Hicks is arguably the most disliked Yankee among the infamous New York fan base. Hicks has been with the New York Yankees since 2016. And while he has shown flashes of brilliance at times, his performance has been inconsistent. He has also struggled with injuries, missing significant portions of the 2019 and 2020 seasons due to injury.
Moreover, his last season’s horror show just added fuel to the fire. Hence, the fans demanded his ouster, but all cries fell on deaf ears of the Bombers’ front office, who backed Hicks for the 2023 season. The backing majorly came in as a result of depleting outfield depth. However, the outfielder hasn’t been able to make the most out of the opportunities and could finally face the axe.
Aaron Hicks Dodges Trade Questions, Sparks Speculation
New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Hicks’ 2023 season started with a lot of drama and controversies. After being snubbed for the opening day, the outfielder called out the team publically and complained about the lack of game time. Further, he made his start in the following games but failed to leave a mark. Hence, the front office benched him again and started Oswaldo Cabrera in left field. Moreover, with Harrison Bader returning sooner than later, Hicks’ place in the team is under serious threat.
Meanwhile, during an interview with YES Network, Aaron Hicks snapped at the reporter for asking trade questions. The reporter asked if he was looking for a fresh start somewhere else. To this, Hicks looked clearly uncomfortable and said, “Its a random question.” He neither denied nor confirmed anything. But the fans were quick to speculate that his body language indeed states that a trade might be on the cards in the foreseeable future. However, the Yankees may find it difficult to trade him if they are looking for a high return. Hicks is owed $10 million in each of the remaining seasons. Moreover, with his injury history and recent struggles at the plate, teams may be hesitant to take on that kind of salary.
Hicks Unsure Of His Role With The Bombers
Earlier, Aaron Hicks publically called out the team for constant snubs. He said he is puzzled regarding his role within the team, and it has led to immense frustration. Subsequently, Aaron Boone, the Yankees manager, responded to his query and said he would get his due at the right time. Boone further confirmed that the outfielder is still very much in the team’s future plans.
However, the Yankees’ decision to start Isiah Kiner-Falefa, the newly transformed utility player, in the left field has raised suspicion. Explaining his decision, Aaron Boone said they want a player with hitting ability on the plate and not just someone who runs around the base paths. This was certainly directed to Aaron Hicks, as per public opinion. Let’s see what the future has in store for the veteran outfielder.