This winter, the New York Yankees lost Juan Soto to the New York Mets but countered by adding Cody Bellinger and Devin Williams. Now, they may be eyeing another trade to strengthen their infield.
FanSided’s Jacob Mountz proposed that the Yankees target Mets All-Star Jeff McNeil as a potential replacement for Gleyber Torres, who signed with the Detroit Tigers as a free agent.
Mountz highlighted that McNeil, a slap hitter known for pulling the ball, isn’t typically a home run threat, but playing in Yankee Stadium could change that. Projections from Baseball Savant suggest McNeil could have hit 19 home runs at Yankee Stadium in 2024, compared to his total of 12 on the season.
McNeil, the 2022 batting champion, struggled in 2024, finishing with a .238/.308/.384 line. A change of scenery might help him rebound. He signed a four-year, $50 million deal in 2023.
Mountz noted that McNeil, turning 33 this season, is owed $15.75 million over the next two years, with a club option for 2027 at the same rate. Trading him would give the Mets a solid return and added financial flexibility, potentially aiding their efforts to re-sign Pete Alonso.
The Yankees are in need of a second baseman, and while DJ LeMahieu could fill the role, concerns about his injuries and a .232 batting average over the past two seasons remain. Acquiring McNeil would solidify their infield with Jazz Chisholm Jr., Anthony Volpe, McNeil, and Paul Goldschmidt.
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