New York Yankees fans woke up Friday morning to the news from The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal that general manager Brian Cashman is talking trade with the Texas Rangers for outfielder Delino DeShields Jr.
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But MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand thinks the Yankees-Rangers talks could go in a different direction.
Joey Gallo profiles as a perfect fit; good on-base skills and a left-handed power bat — but will the Rangers move him this summer? Gallo is making $6.2 million in 2021 and is eligible for salary arbitration for one more year before he can reach free agency. I would guess he gets moved, and there’s no team that could use him more than the Yankees. If they’re willing to add some payroll, it feels like a natural move.
Gallo was All-Star in 2019 and won a Gold Glove last year. And his power is legit. He hit at least 40 home runs in back-to-back seasons (2017 and 2018). But the downside? Gallo is a lifetime .209 hitter and leads the majors with 64 strikeouts this season.
Cashman is desperate for help in the outfield. Both Aaron Hicks and Giancarlo Stanton are on the injured list. So is Ryan LaMarre, who was called up from Triple-A Scranton this week. On top of that, Clint Frazier has been battling a sore neck. That has left manager Aaron Boone with just Aaron Judge and Brett Gardner as sure things, with Miguel Andujar and utility man Tyler Wade getting some outfield reps.
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Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.
