The New York Yankees are in search of a solution at third base and might consider a trade to address this need. Initially, they intended to use DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera in that position before the season began. However, LeMahieu’s injury and Cabrera’s performance from the previous year might not inspire confidence in the Yankees regarding their dependability.

Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller proposed that the Yankees could target Yandy Díaz from the Tampa Bay Rays as a potential fix for their third base dilemma. “This might be an ‘Arenado or bust’ scenario, akin to what it felt like throughout the offseason, despite the Yankees not being seriously linked to the Cardinals’ third baseman,” Miller noted.

“If Arenado is out of the picture, Díaz could be the best alternative, combining the ability to play third base with potential availability, but it’s uncertain if he would be accessible to the Yankees. The AL East competitors have only executed three trades historically, none of which occurred at the trade deadline.” The Rays appear unlikely to compete for a championship this season.

Díaz, who signed a three-year, $24 million contract in 2023, has a $12 million club option for next season. In 2023, he was recognized as an All-Star, a Silver Slugger winner, and a batting champion. Last season, his stats were a .281/.341/.414 slash line with 14 home runs and 65 RBIs. This season, he has started slowly, going 8-for-46.

Nonetheless, a new environment and joining a more talent-laden team might help him regain his All-Star level. The Yankees, who previously acquired Jazz Chisholm Jr. to bolster their infield, could consider Díaz as a midseason trade target to enhance their roster.