A roster overhaul is inevitable this off-season as the New York Yankees aim to fall back into World Series contention. Scuffles are expected in almost every department as free agency looms. Moreover, the Bronx Bombers have to decide on the fate of as many as 17 arbitration-eligible players.
Meanwhile, rumors are flaring up that the Yankees might opt to deplete the catching depth owing to youth influx. The regular backstops have remained mediocre at best on and behind the plate. Thus, the team has had enough and will look for reinforcements elsewhere. Let’s explore the catchers who could navigate the exit doors and the ones who would receive an additional lifeline.
Kyle Higashioka, Ben Rortvedt On Trade Block As Yankees Eye Bold Move!
Andy Martino of SNY caused a major uproar amongst the Yankee fanbase with a startling claim. The journalist claimed that the New York Yankees have made catchers Kyle Higashioka and Ben Rortvedt available on the trade block for the right price. Since Austin Wells is heading into a full-time role on the active roster in 2024, Higashioka would have to take the fall. Additionally, Jose Trevino, the lead catcher of the team, is expected to be back by the 2024 season opening day. That leaves no room for either of Higashioka and Rortvedt. Kyle, the longest-tenured Yankee, is an arbitration-eligible player. He has produced awe-inspiring moments in his prolonged tenure in the Bronx. Thus, the Yanks can wait for the 2024 winter before making a big call.
Ben Rortvedt, on the other hand, is an excellent catcher behind the plate. However, his problem arises from his lackluster on the plate. In 32 games this year, Ben could only gather up .118 with a .461 OPS. Austin Wells’ upside can throw Rortvedt out of competition on any given day. Also, the catcher played his last option year in 2023. That means he has to be DFA’d or put on waivers before handing out a minor league contract. Additionally, the Yankees have prospects like Ben Rice, Agustin Ramirez, Carlos Narvaez, and Josh Breaux budding in the minor league system. Thus, by the early looks of it, Both Higashioka and Rortvedt are expected to exit the Bronx in 2024. But would it be the right choice or not? That could be a debatable topic.
Jon Heyman Refutes Yanks-Padres Juan Soto Trade Talks Speculation!
Andy Martino of SNY recently claimed that the New York Yankees have approached the San Diego Padres to check on the availability of Juan Soto ahead of the upcoming off-season. However, Jon Heyman of the New York Post seemingly rejected the claim. In a recent article, he claimed that the Bombers have not approached the Padres yet.
While the duo talked about Soto during the August 1 trade deadline, the Yankees are yet to approach the Padres regarding an off-season trade. Regardless, the rumors of Yanks’ alleged interest in Soto have been widely visible. They desperately need a generational talent like him to guide the team to another championship alongside captain Aaron Judge. A bold yet much-needed move.