The New York Yankees are at a crossroads, working to fill an infield gap while balancing their desire to remain competitive after a disappointing World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
After failing to land Juan Soto, the Yankees shifted focus, but they still face key decisions, particularly around where Jazz Chisholm Jr. will play in 2025.
Chisholm’s Role and New York’s Infield Dilemma
The plan appears to involve returning Chisholm to second base, especially following Gleyber Torres’ departure to Detroit on a one-year, $15 million deal.
This leaves third base open, but the Yankees have yet to secure a clear upgrade. While DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Oswald Peraza are internal candidates, they carry risks and don’t scream “long-term solution.”
Free agent Alex Bregman might seem like a dream fit. The latest reports suggest the Yankees aren’t prioritizing him.
Why Gavin Lux Could Be the Yankees’ Solution
So, what’s next? One name that has surfaced is Gavin Lux. According to sources, the Yankees have shown interest in the Dodgers’ second baseman, though the Seattle Mariners appear to be leading the chase.
Lux was once considered a cornerstone for the Dodgers. Now he finds himself potentially on the trade block after L.A. signed infielder Hyeseong Kim.
Lux’s case is intriguing. At 27, he offers two years of affordable team control and solid potential despite uneven results.
His left-handed bat could help balance the Yankees’ lineup, and a change of scenery might unlock his upside.
His career .252/.326/.383 slash line doesn’t leap off the page, but his strong second half in 2024—where he hit .304 with a .898 OPS—suggests he’s capable of more.
Defensively, Lux hasn’t lived up to his billing. His -2 Outs Above Average at second base last year won’t ease concerns, and his struggles against left-handed pitching (.202 career average) raise the specter of a platoon role.
But as a low-cost acquisition, he might be worth the gamble for a team like New York who are desperate to spark their infield.
The Trade Market: Yankees vs. Mariners for Lux
Even if the Yankees strike out on Lux, the Mariners seem like an ideal destination for the versatile infielder.
For now, all eyes are on whether New York and Los Angeles—fresh off a World Series battle—can strike a deal that could reshape their futures.
