With spring training just a week away, the New York Yankees’ third base situation remains uncertain. Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, and DJ LeMahieu currently stand as the most viable internal options, but none inspire full confidence. The Yankees’ search for external solutions has grown increasingly desperate, with recent speculation linking them to Yoán Moncada and Kiké Hernández. However, Moncada signed a $5 million deal with the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday, while Hernández is reportedly close to rejoining the Dodgers.
Moncada’s injury-plagued recent seasons (12 games in 2023, 92 in 2022) made him a risky bet, and the Yankees opted against pursuing him. Meanwhile, the Angels’ infield is now crowded with Nolan Schanuel, Zach Neto, Moncada, Tim Anderson (on a minor-league deal), top prospect Christian Moore, and Luis Rengifo. This logjam could make Rengifo available, potentially offering the Yankees a cost-effective solution.
Rengifo, a versatile infielder, had a breakout 2023 season, posting a .300 average and 116 OPS+ in 283 at-bats. Despite his below-average exit velocities and limited defensive range, he excels at getting on base, running the bases, and being a consistent offensive presence. While not a long-term fix, Rengifo could serve as a budget-friendly stopgap, akin to a less-accomplished Luis Arraez. For a Yankees team in need of stability at third base, Rengifo represents a more sensible option than gambling on Moncada or relying solely on unproven internal candidates.
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