The New York Yankees’ front office jostled hard to resolve the infield jam at the August 1 mid-season trade deadline. With DJ LeMahieu, Anthony Rizzo, and Gleyber Torres struggling to stay healthy, the Yanks eventually traded for CF Jazz Chisholm Jr and transformed into a third baseman.
However, Jazz Chisholm is unlikely to play full-time at third base in the 2025 season. Hence, the New York Yankees will be required to pursue an infield upgrade. Interestingly, a top infield trade target from the San Francisco Giants is likely to enter free agency, thus paving the way for a blockbuster Yankee union.
Matt Chapman To Enter Free Agency, Yankees Amongst Top Suitor
The New York Yankees’ quest for a third base solution ended with Jazz Chisholm Jr at the trade deadline. While Jazz had earned an All-Star selection as second baseman, third base was an unfamiliar territory, which he surprisingly aced. However, going ahead into the 2025 season, the front office is likely to mull a change in the infield setup. Chisholm might be moved to second base, leaving the third base empty for a new addition. Meanwhile, as per MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Yanks top trade target Matt Chapman is likely to enter free agency next off-season. Chapman was amongst the Scott Boras clients who waited until the final hour of the off-season to strike a deal. The third baseman signed a three-year, $54 million deal, including a player option for 2025.
And as per general belief, Matt Chapman is likely to exercise his player option and test free agency waters again next off-season. While he started the season with a .599 OPS in his first 44 games, Chapman owns 15 home runs with a .872 OPS over his past 82 games. For the Yankees, this development opens the door to pursue a player they have admired for some time. Chapman’s availability will likely trigger a bidding war among several top teams, but the Yanks’ financial muscle and championship aspirations could give them an edge in securing his services. If the Bombers were to land Chapman, it would signal a significant boost to their infield and overall roster depth. His presence at third base would provide a steadying influence both defensively and offensively, thus eliminating the instability that has prevailed over third base for a while now.
Juan Soto Reveals Free Agency Plans Amid Loud Chants
The New York Yankees fan seated at the Yankee Stadium erupted his “Please Stay Soto” chants following back-to-back barrels from the trio of Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Giancarlo Stanton. Soto extended his career-high tally to 37 long hits and is expected to be a hot commodity in the upcoming free agency market.
Meanwhile, while the love between Juan Soto and Yankee fans is mutual, the slugger refused to commit to the team. He urged the fans to talk to Brian Cashman and convince him to offer a lucrative deal. Soto often distances himself from market talks as his faith in agent Scott Boras is immense. Hence, Boras will call the shots next off-season.
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