The New York Yankees face a pressing need to address their infield situation after Gleyber Torres departed in free agency to join the Detroit Tigers. Torres’ exit has left a gap at second base, and while the Yankees have internal candidates like DJ LeMahieu, they appear to be exploring external options to bolster their roster.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Yankees have shown interest in Brendan Rodgers, a free-agent infielder who was non-tendered by the Colorado Rockies. Rodgers, while not known for his power, brings value as a dependable defender and a consistent hitter. Over his career, Rodgers has posted a respectable .267/.316/.409 slash line, accompanied by 45 home runs. His performance in 2024 demonstrated his ability to rebound, hitting .267 with 13 home runs after injuries limited him to just 46 games in 2023.
Nightengale also mentioned the Yankees’ broader roster adjustments, noting their efforts to move pitcher Marcus Stroman and his $18 million salary. Additionally, the team has engaged in discussions with left-handed reliever Andrew Chafin, suggesting a multi-faceted approach to improving both the pitching staff and infield depth.
The Yankees’ potential pursuit of Rodgers aligns with their need for a reliable second baseman to complement their lineup. Rodgers’ skillset as a solid hitter and capable defender makes him a practical option to fill the void left by Torres. Whether or not a deal materializes, the Yankees’ interest in players like Rodgers reflects their active strategy to enhance their competitiveness heading into the 2025 season.
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