LATEST: Yankees confirm $8 million replacement for Alex Verdugo in early negotiation as Follow-Up Move from Cleveland Guardians

The New York Yankees, after making significant offseason moves, are still looking to address several roster needs, including adding depth to their corner infield positions. After securing pitcher Max Fried in free agency and acquiring closer Devin Williams and centerfielder Cody Bellinger via trade, the Yankees have made strides, but they also need to fill the void in left field left by Alex Verdugo, who became a free agent following a down season.

One potential move on the horizon could be a trade for Cleveland Guardians outfielder Lane Thomas. According to Caleb Moody of Just Baseball, Thomas could offer the Yankees a cheaper upgrade in left field. After a breakout 2023 season in which he hit 28 home runs, Thomas struggled in 2024. However, if he can return to his 2023 form, he could provide a solid middle-of-the-order presence for the Yankees alongside players like Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. Moody noted that Thomas has the potential to hit 20+ home runs, maintain a .250 batting average, and post a .750 OPS.

Thomas is expected to make $7.8 million in his final year of arbitration and is likely to be available on the trade market. His versatility, with experience playing both center and left field, would provide the Yankees with more outfield options, particularly if Bellinger needs to shift to first base. In addition, Thomas is a strong baserunner with a career OPS+ of 107, which would bring added value to the Yankees lineup.

While the Yankees have high hopes for 21-year-old prospect Jasson Dominguez, the young outfielder still has some development to undergo before becoming a reliable option in left field at Yankee Stadium. If the Yankees opt to pursue corner infielders in free agency, Thomas would serve as an affordable and strategic option to bolster their outfield depth, rounding out an already improved roster.