As the 2024 season approaches, the New York Yankees face a significant dilemma regarding the absence of Gerrit Cole due to injury. Additionally, with third baseman DJ LeMahieu now facing injury concerns, speculation arises whether the team might pursue a trade for Detroit Tigers infielder Gio Urshela.
MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch raised this possibility on March 18, suggesting that Urshela’s status as the Tigers’ everyday third baseman might not be assured. This situation arises as LeMahieu, initially slated as the Yankees’ starting third baseman, grapples with a bone bruise in his right foot, potentially jeopardizing his availability for Opening Day. The team’s depth is further strained by Oswald Peraza’s shoulder injury, leaving utility fielder Oswaldo Cabrera as a less-than-ideal option given his modest performance this spring.
Urshela, who drew interest from the Yankees in the offseason before signing with Detroit for $1.5 million, enjoyed a successful stint in New York between 2019 and 2021, notably demonstrating improved offensive prowess during his tenure.
Before his time with the Yankees, Urshela’s offensive output across multiple seasons with the Cleveland Guardians and Toronto Blue Jays was lackluster. However, his performance significantly improved while with the Yankees, maintaining a solid offensive record even after leaving the team.
Considering the Yankees’ current roster challenges and their ongoing pursuit of pitching upgrades amidst Cole’s absence, acquiring Urshela, whose contract aligns with the team’s budget constraints, appears feasible. Despite financial limitations due to the luxury tax threshold, the relatively modest cost associated with Urshela’s contract makes him an attractive option for the team.
In summary, while the Yankees face uncertainties with key players sidelined by injuries, a potential trade for Gio Urshela offers a viable solution to bolster their roster without exceeding budget constraints.
