The New York Yankees are in urgent need of a new third baseman after DJ LeMahieu suffered a calf injury during spring training. Relying on LeMahieu as the everyday third baseman, while Jazz Chisholm played second base, was always a risky move—and now that plan has fallen apart. With just a few weeks left before Opening Day, Brian Cashman and the Yankees are back at square one.
However, there’s still a chance to strengthen the roster with a potential bounce-back candidate: Christian Encarnacion-Strand. The 25-year-old infielder is stuck behind Spencer Steer and Jeimer Candelario at both corner infield spots with no guaranteed playing time in Cincinnati.
Last season, he didn’t have the best performance, hitting just .190 in 123 plate appearances due to injuries. However, in 2023, he showed promise with a .270 average, 13 home runs, and 37 RBIs for the Reds.
Christian Encarnacion Strand
A trade to the Yankees would offer Encarnacion-Strand a fresh start, where he could get regular at-bats as the everyday third baseman. His 2023 stats demonstrate potential and room for improvement.
Both teams would have limited leverage in negotiations—the Yankees are desperate for a third baseman, while the Reds know Encarnacion-Strand is blocked and may be frustrated by the lack of opportunities. Although the Reds might hesitate to part with him, an overpay from the Yankees could make it too tempting for GM Nick Krall to pass up.
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