The New York Yankees’ regular third baseman, Josh Donaldson’s contract, is coming to an end after the 2023 season, and the team needs to find a replacement.
Josh Donaldson is arguably the least likable guy among the New York fan base. His slump in form last season landed him on the wrong side of the brutal fan base. Further into the off-season, the rival teams refused to attain him via trade due to his high contract value and age factor. Hence, the Bombers were left with no choice but to continue with him for an additional year.
Meanwhile, Josh had an average start to the 2023 season. In five appearances, he has hit .125 with one homer and one RBI. To make the matter worse, he pulled his hamstring last week and landed on a ten days injury list. Hence, all things considered, the Yankees would definitely part ways with the baseman after the current season. But who they replace him with remains to be seen.
Matt Chapman Perfect Fit For The Yankees, Claims MLB Insider
Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Matt Chapman is all set to hit free agency after the 2023 season. He is off to a flying start in 2023 by scoring three home runs and 15 RBIs with a batting average of .460 in 13 outings. Despite all glory, the baseman remains determined to terminate his association with the Blue Jays in the upcoming off-season. Hence, MLB insider Jon Heyman believes he will perfectly fit in the New York Yankees lineup, with Josh Donaldson vacating the third base.
Matt Chapman is known for his elite defense at third base and his power at the plate. He has won three Gold Glove awards and has hit over 25 home runs in each of his last two full seasons. Hence, if the Yankees were to acquire Chapman, he would likely slot in as the team’s everyday third baseman and provide a major boost to their defense and power production. However, it would be that easy for the Bombers. If Matt continues his stellar run throughout the season, his contract value could reach sky-high. Hence, the Yankees need to stay mindful and not repeat previous mistakes.
Fans Disagree With Heyman, Says It Too Early To Predict 2024 Trade Deals
Meanwhile, the New York Yankees fan base snapped at Jon Heyman for his wild predictions. They said the season is just two weeks old, and it’s too early to judge a player. Matt Chapman might have been off to a stellar start, but how long he can sustain remains to be seen. Moreover, the fans urged the Yankees to stay vigilant and wait till the end of the season before coming to a decision.
Well, the fans’ arguments are not factually incorrect. Matt has a career average of .244 and is 29 years old. Hence, if they wait till the very end, the Yankees could get a better deal, perhaps at a cheaper rate. Regardless, the Bombers’ think tank is unpredictable. One can never guess their next move. With that being said, 2024 is a long way ahead, and let’s not get way ahead of ourselves.