Third base has been one of the many problematic areas for the New York Yankees this season. Josh Donaldson, the designated third baseman, could only last 35 games before facing multiple injury setbacks. He was eventually cut off from the squad last month. Since then, prospect Oswald Peraza has been handling third-base duties and is, in fact, doing a fine job.
Still, the New York Yankees will look for options in free agency next year. The team is expected to go full aggressive as the current roster needs a lot of shaping. Meanwhile, rumors have linked Chicago Cubs baseman Matt Chapman to the Bronx Bombers. But do the Yanks stand a chance amid raging competition?
Yankees Unlikely To Go After Matt Chapman In Upcoming Free Agency!
As the New York Yankees conclude the 2023 MLB season, the team is already looking far ahead to set foot right in 2024. One of the many areas of target would be third base. Rumors have so far linked Chicago Cubs infielder Matt Chapman to the Bombers. But does the front office stand a chance? Chapman is set to become a free agent in 2024, and the Cubs have so far not initiated an extension contract. The Yanks desperately need a strong and reliable third baseman, and Matt has been hot in 2023. In 131 games, he hit .244 with 15 homers, 51 RBIs, and .760 OPS. He is also renowned for his exceptional defensive skills, particularly at the hot corner.
Having said that, Matt Chapman has upped his stakes with an incredible 2023 season. His market value is not exactly going to hit the roof. But it would be high enough to give the Yankees a run for the money. Despite being one of the franchises with the highest payroll, the Bombers have been cautious about the luxury tax. Moreover, the Bombers are likely to prioritize an outfielder first before trying to look for any other viable option. Hence, as per WFAN Host Keith McPherson, the Yanks would not go after Matt Chapman in free agency. They would rather look for cheap options, keeping Oswald Peraza as the regular starter. After all, these prospects are likely to be the torchbearers of the organization, at least for next year.
Giancarlo Stanton Up For Trade?
Meanwhile, rumors have it that Giancarlo Stanton could be put up on the trade market next off-season in the aftermath of an underwhelming season. However, Stanton, who is under contract till 2027, has a no-trade clause that disallows the team to ship him away without his consent. This could complicate the situation.
Moreover, the New York Yankees would demand a strong return option, and at the same time, Giancarlo Stanton is unlikely to find any great suitors. All things considered, Stanton does not seem to be going anywhere, at least for the 2024 season. Earlier, even skipper Aaron Boone confirmed backing the slugger in the off-season as well as the spring training.