The New York Yankees have started the season strong and are currently in first place in the AL East, sharing the MLB lead with 12 wins.
However, the team is still likely to make roster adjustments as it aims for a successful playoff run after a disappointing 2023 season. One area that might be improved is first base, where Anthony Rizzo has started the year with a .243/.321/.314 batting line in 70 at-bats and a .978 fielding percentage.
Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report named the Yankees as a potential fit for St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, considering him one of MLB’s “top nine trade targets.” Kelly noted that while the Cardinals may want to keep Goldschmidt for legacy reasons, they might be better off trading him as they are an aging team and could be looking to rebuild.
Goldschmidt is in the final season of a five-year, $130 million contract extension with the Cardinals, so the team might want to trade him for value before he becomes a free agent. Goldschmidt’s impressive career stats include a .292/.387/.517 batting line over 14 seasons, seven All-Star selections, five Silver Slugger Awards, four Gold Glove Awards, and the 2022 National League MVP.
Although Goldschmidt has started the 2024 season slowly, slashing .190/.292/.238 in 63 at-bats, his defense remains strong with a 1.000 fielding percentage. He is expected to regain his form at the plate, as he hit .268/.363/.447 last season and was an MVP in 2022.
If the Yankees believe Goldschmidt’s bat could strengthen their lineup later this season, they might pursue him as a rental before he becomes a free agent, which could be an appealing move. He would likely be an upgrade at first base compared to Rizzo.
However, the Yankees would face competition in trade talks for Goldschmidt. Contending teams such as the Braves, Dodgers, and Phillies already have strong first basemen, but other contenders might see him as a valuable rental.
Teams like the Yankees, Rangers, and Twins could benefit from adding Goldschmidt at first base. Nonetheless, the Yankees won’t be the only team interested in acquiring Goldschmidt if he becomes available for trade midseason.