Fansided

MLB Rumors: 5 Yankees most likely to be traded this offseason

By Rucker Haringey

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 08: Luke Voit #59 of the New York Yankees reacts after flying out against the Tampa Bay Rays during the sixth inning in Game Four of the American League Division Series at PETCO Park on October 08, 2020 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 08: Luke Voit #59 of the New York Yankees reacts after flying out against the Tampa Bay Rays during the sixth inning in Game Four of the American League Division Series at PETCO Park on October 08, 2020 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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Yankees trade rumors, Luke Voit
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 15: Luke Voit #59 of the New York Yankees reacts after hitting a home run during the second inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on September 15, 2020 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

4. Luke Voit

Voit’s inclusion on this list may raise some eyebrows. After all, he was nothing short of great for the Yankees last season. His 22 home runs were a huge reason why New York managed to make the playoffs comfortably despite serious injuries to several other big-name hitters.

The problem with Voit’s future in the Bronx is his lack of positional versatility. He can only serve as a first baseman or a designated hitter. His defense at first is average, at best. The designated hitter spot is largely blocked by the presence of Giancarlo Stanton and his massive contract.

It’s conceivable that the Yankees might try to sell high on Voit to open up some space in the infield. The organization clearly wants to retain D.J. LeMahieu. He’s perhaps best suited to play second base, but the team might need to move Gleyber Torres back to that spot to make room for a better defensive shortstop. This complicated game of infield dominoes might make keeping Voit a luxury the Yankees don’t want to afford.

Voit’s ability to be an All-Star offensive presence at first base could make him a very valuable trade chip. As such, the Yankees could try to turn him into a front line starting pitcher or upgrade at catcher. Dealing Voit would be a big gamble by Cashman, but he’s not a general manager that fears taking a big swing.

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