ESPN: The Yankees sign two-time MLB hits leader as a replacement for Gleyber Torres.
Since making his Major League debut in 2018, second baseman Gleyber Torres has been a mainstay in the New York Yankees’ lineup. He recently left a void on the Bronx’s infield when he signed a one-year, $15 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. Is it possible that Whit Merrifield, a veteran, might take his place? The Yankees moved Paul Goldschmidt, the 2022 National League MVP Award winner, to first base to cover for general manager Brian Cashman. Depending on the requirements of the team, New York may decide to move Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to second base or leave him at third base until 2025.
As spring training draws nearer, Brendan Kuty of The Athletic spoke about the Yankees’ possible infield possibilities. For a squad that wants to win a championship, internal possibilities like Oswald Peraza, Oswaldo Cabrera, and DJ LeMahieu are far from certain.
Kuty cited Merrifield, a free agent at the moment, as one of the Bombers’ external choices. “The Yankees were also in contact with Merrifield after the Philadelphia Phillies cut him in July,” Kuty stated. After recording a 93 OPS+ in 42 games, Merrifield signed with the Atlanta Braves. Later this month, he will turn 36.
While playing for the Kansas City Royals in 2018 and 2019, Merrifield led MLB in hits with 192 and 206, respectively. In subsequent years, his output has declined; in 2024, he recorded 335 plate appearances with an OPS of.625. It would be a cheap substitute for the Yankees if other ideas don’t work out. According to Spotrac, Merrifield’s current market worth is $1.5 million after a year.
