NEWS FLASH; Yankees Eye Major Bargain: Could The Two-Time World Series Winner Be The Versatile Game-Changer They Need?

The biggest name still on the free agent market, former Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, now seems out of reach for the New York Yankees. Bregman has reportedly been seeking a contract worth around $200 million.

However, as the Yankees continue searching for infield upgrades, they may be considering a much more affordable option, one that could cost them just a fraction of Bregman’s asking price, according to the SB Nation Yankees blog, Pinstripe Alley.

In the 2023-2024 offseason, the Yankees attempted to sign former Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox utility player Enrique “Kiké” Hernández. However, the veteran, a 2009 sixth-round draft pick by Houston, chose to return to the Dodgers, rejecting the Yankees’ offer.

Hernández went on to be part of the 2024 Los Angeles World Series championship team, having also won a title with the Dodgers in 2020 during the shortened season. As a member of the Red Sox, Hernández played a pivotal role in the 2021 squad that made an unexpected run to the American League Championship Series.

Pinstripe Alley’s Estevão Maximo highlights Hernández’s versatility, noting his significant experience playing key positions such as shortstop and center field. While the Yankees are hopeful for Jasson Domínguez to step up in the outfield, a combination of Hernández, Cody Bellinger, and Aaron Judge would provide exceptional defensive depth. Even if Domínguez thrives, Hernández could serve as a versatile bench option, providing flexibility for various positions.

Maximo also pointed out Hernández’s unique ability to fill in as a pitcher, having appeared in five games as a reliever for the Dodgers. During his time with the Red Sox in 2021, he also recorded eight outfield assists, ranking just behind teammate Alex Verdugo for the MLB’s top 10, despite only playing 93 games in the outfield.

At 33 years old, Hernández would be an affordable addition for the Yankees, especially after playing 2024 for just $4 million on a one-year deal with the Dodgers. Spotrac estimates that he will command a $2.8 million, one-year contract in free agency this time around, making him a cost-effective option for New York.