As the New York Yankees continue to refine their roster during the offseason, one position that remains a major area of concern is third base. Despite having other needs to address, improving the hot corner should be a priority for the Yankees as they look ahead to the 2024 season.
The third base position has been a hot topic ever since the Yankees’ 2024 season ended. Analysts and fans alike have criticized how the team approached filling this key spot in their infield. Early in the year, Brian Cashman and his front office sought a quick fix by trading for utility player Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the Miami Marlins on July 27, sending three prospects in return. This trade, which was seen as a move to address several infield issues, came with its own set of challenges.
Chisholm Jr.’s arrival in New York was prompted by a disappointing season for the Marlins, who decided to part with the versatile player. The Yankees, on the other hand, were optimistic about his ability to contribute across multiple positions. However, the choice to assign Chisholm to third base raised questions, as he was not a natural fit for the position. In fact, he had played just 45 games at third base in his entire career, all of which occurred in 2024 after the trade. While Chisholm gave his best effort at third, his lack of experience at the hot corner was occasionally apparent, despite his aggressive and fearless play.
Chisholm’s primary positions had been shortstop and second base, with some experience in the outfield, mostly in center field. Given his background, it would be prudent for the Yankees to explore the possibility of shifting Chisholm back to second base, where he could be more comfortable and continue to offer his utility. This could also free up third base for a more established option.
In addition to internal adjustments, the Yankees have been linked to veteran third baseman Alex Bregman, who is a free agent this offseason. Reports indicate that the Yankees are very interested in Bregman, but they will need to act quickly and be prepared to offer a competitive deal to secure his services. Bregman is a talented player, and he has attracted attention from other teams as well, including the Detroit Tigers and the New York Mets, who are both rumored to be pursuing him.
The Yankees have been reluctant to part with top-tier prospects in recent trade talks, as evidenced by their failed pursuit of Bregman’s former Houston Astros teammate, Kyle Tucker. During negotiations, the Yankees did not offer any of their top 30 prospects, and they also balked at parting with right-handed pitcher Luis Gil, a player the Astros had been expecting in a potential trade. Given this hesitance, it is unclear whether the Yankees will be able to meet Bregman’s price, and they may need to prepare for the possibility of losing out on him.
If Bregman does slip through the Yankees’ grasp, there are still other potential options to consider. One such option is Nolan Arenado, the eight-time All-Star third baseman currently with the St. Louis Cardinals. Arenado is under contract for three more years, but with the Cardinals not expected to contend for the postseason in 2025, they may look to trade him for future assets. The Yankees, who are in need of a reliable third baseman, could be one of the teams interested in acquiring Arenado.
Arenado’s list of accomplishments speaks for itself. With 10 Gold Glove Awards, five Silver Slugger Awards, and a career full of impressive offensive and defensive numbers, he would be a major asset for the Yankees. In 2024, Arenado posted a .272 batting average with a .325 on-base percentage, a .394 slugging percentage, 157 hits, 16 home runs, and 71 RBIs. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively would make him a key piece in any team’s World Series aspirations. Furthermore, Arenado has expressed some flexibility, indicating that he would be willing to move to first base if necessary to facilitate a trade.
If the Yankees are unable to secure a trade for an established third baseman like Bregman or Arenado, they may need to turn to their own roster to fill the gap. One option already within the organization is Oswaldo Cabrera, a versatile infielder who can play third base. Cabrera is already protected on the Yankees’ 40-man roster, and the team could choose to give him a chance to prove himself at the position during spring training.
Cabrera brings a solid combination of athleticism and versatility to the table. He is a switch-hitter with good contact skills and an ability to get on base, which could make him a valuable contributor in the lower half of the batting order. If the Yankees decide to go this route, they would need to assess Cabrera’s readiness for the everyday third base role, but he could be a cost-effective internal solution if external options prove difficult to secure.
third base remains a pressing concern for the New York Yankees as they continue to shape their roster for the 2024 season. The team must decide whether to pursue high-profile external options like Alex Bregman or Nolan Arenado or give younger players like Oswaldo Cabrera the opportunity to fill the position. Whatever course of action the Yankees decide to take, improving third base should be at the top of their priority list this offseason.
