As Spring Training approaches, the Yankees appear poised to rely on a trio of DJ LeMahieu, Oswald Peraza, and Oswaldo Cabrera to handle third base.
While each of these players once showed significant promise, their recent performances have left much to be desired. LeMahieu, in particular, seems a far cry from his batting champion days. While it’s possible for any of them to rebound, this uncertainty is a risky gamble for a team with postseason aspirations, especially after investing heavily in one-year rentals like Devin Williams. The Yankees learned their lesson with Juan Soto and can’t afford to repeat the same mistakes.
General Manager Brian Cashman has reportedly explored numerous infield options across the league, but financial constraints tied to Marcus Stroman’s contract have hindered any major moves. Owner Hal Steinbrenner is unwilling to increase payroll without shedding Stroman’s salary, leaving the Yankees to seek affordable infield solutions.
Across town, the Mets face a similar dilemma. Their search for a reliable starter has led them to inquire about top-tier pitchers like Garrett Crochet and Dylan Cease, but the asking prices have been prohibitively high. With Pete Alonso back in the fold, the Mets have limited room for their emerging young talent. Like the Yankees, owner Steve Cohen is hesitant to add to an already hefty payroll, especially after Soto’s massive $765 million deal.
However, a potential solution could lie in a cross-town trade between the Yankees and Mets. The Yankees have a surplus of rotation arms, while the Mets boast a deep pool of prospects. A deal centered around Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt could benefit both sides. Schmidt, who had a breakout 2024 season with a 2.85 ERA in 16 starts before being sidelined by injury, is an affordable, controllable option for the Mets. In return, the Yankees could acquire Mets prospect Luisangel Acuña, a versatile 22-year-old with elite speed and contact skills, along with reliever Huascar Brazoban, a high-potential arm despite his inconsistency.
Acuña, the younger brother of MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., has shown flashes of brilliance, including a strong MLB debut last season and an impressive showing in the Venezuelan Winter League. Brazoban, despite his struggles with the Mets, possesses elite metrics in limiting hard contact and could thrive under Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake. Both players offer long-term control, making this a potential win-win for both New York teams.
As the Yankees and Mets navigate their respective challenges, a low-cost, mutually beneficial trade could be the key to addressing their needs without breaking the bank.
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