The Yankees are poised for a critical off-season as they navigate a potential massive contract extension for superstar outfielder Juan Soto . Whether Soto remains in pinstripes or departs, general manager Brian Cashman will have to address multiple roster needs, including filling several key positions left vacant by free agents. Addressing Second Base After Torres One of Cashman’s top priorities will be second base, with Gleyber Torres likely departing in free agency.
Letting Torres walk would free up $14.2 million in luxury tax salary, which could be allocated toward other roster improvements. The Yankees may opt to explore the trade market for a replacement.
Yankees’ Potential Trade Target: Nico Hoerner Chris Kirchner of The Athletic suggests that the Yankees could trade starting pitcher Nestor Cortes for Chicago Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner . The Cubs are in need of pitching depth, and Cortes is coming off a strong season, pitching 174.1 innings with a 3.
77 ERA. As a reliable left-handed starter, he would bolster Chicago’s rotation. In return, the Yankees would acquire Hoerner, a 27-year-old infielder recovering from right flexor tendon surgery.
Hoerner played 151 games last season, hitting .273/.335/.
373 with seven home runs, 48 RBIs, 31 stolen bases, and a 103 wRC+. While Hoerner’s offensive production is comparable to Torres, his defensive and base-running skills offer significant upgrades. Defensive and Base-Running Improvements Hoerner excelled defensively at s.