ESPN: The Yankees acquired the Mets $50 million slugger and a two-time All-Star to cover the infield void.
The New York Yankees made a number of additions in an attempt to contend for the World Series again in 2025 after losing outfielder Juan Soto to the New York Mets. However, manager Aaron Boone’s infield still has a big void to fill after Gleyber Torres left for the Detroit Tigers. Could Jeff McNeil, a utility player, be called up by the Bombers to the Mets? The Yankees presently have Paul Goldschmidt at first base, Anthony Volpe at shortstop, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. at third base on their infield. Chisholm’s more natural position is second base, but he did a decent job holding down the hot corner after joining the Bronx last summer.
Ideally, general manager Brian Cashman would have someone else fill in at third base and send Chisholm back to the right side of the infield. Jacob Mountz of FanSided said the Bombers should look at four infielders, including McNeil.
“McNeil hit a respectable .279 with 10 home runs while on the road (in 2024),” Mountz stated. “He recorded a pitiful.199 with two home runs when batting at home. Given his splits, it is obvious that playing in a different setting would be extremely beneficial for McNeil. The Bronx could be the perfect place for McNeil, who is known for his slap-hitting style, which usually leads to a high batting average. His left-handed swing has the ability to hit over 20 home runs a year at Yankee Stadium, something he has only accomplished once.
The 32-year-old’s four-year, $50 million contract is about to start its third season. $15.75 million will be his 2025 and 2026 income. According to Spotrac, McNeil’s deal also has a $15.75 million club option for 2027. The 2022 MLB hitting champion and two-time All-Star showed promise before going on the disabled list, while struggling to a.238/.308/.384 line in 2024. Prior to the All-Star break, McNeil had 323 plate appearances with a.216/.276/.314 batting line. But in the second half, he had 149 plate appearances and slashed.289/.376/.547.
