Yankees rumors: 3 All-Stars to trade for at the deadline
By Tim Boyle
2. Yankees rumors: Ian Happ is the outfield upgrade to target
The Yankees love players that can play multiple positions. If they’re interested in adding another player like this, Ian Happ of the Chicago Cubs would be the man to land.
Happ turns 28 in August and would also be under contract through next season as well. He’d be an obvious upgrade over Joey Gallo and a vastly different player. He wrapped up the first half batting .274/.364/.443 with 9 home runs in 368 trips to the plate. While he has hit for some power in the past, it’s his incredibly productive 2022 campaign that should have the Yankees calling up the Cubs.
Happ has already reached 23 doubles—overtaking last year’s career-high of 23. Although his home run pace is down from the 25 he managed to swat last year, his slash line numbers far exceed the .226/.323/.434 he finished the year with. The Yankees, with more than enough power in other places, would surely take fewer home runs in favor of what Happ does do well.
Best of all, it’s that versatility in the field that should have the Yankees and just about everyone else seeking his services. Capable of playing the outfield and infield, he’s a solution just about anywhere in the face of an injury.