3 New York Yankees who won’t be on the roster by June 1

2. Aaron Hicks won’t be on the Yankees roster by June 1

At this point, the release or designation for assignment of Aaron Hicks is just a matter of time.

The struggling Yankee outfielder is off to another slow start to 2023, batting .146 with an OPS at .356, and a total WAR of -0.7, uitting himself in last place on the leaderboard for all Major League position players. His Walk and Strikeout Percentages are both at career worst for Hicks, who used to make a name for himself with his ability to get on base via walks. His K% is at 26.9% to complement the walk percentage at 7.7%

As for his defense, Hicks is already on the downfall. In the 19 games he’s played, he has already amounted to -2.0 Outs Above Average, which is worse than his 1.0 OAA last year. His success rate on balls hit near his thus far is down to 76%. That’s a horrific stat to hear, as he sat in the high 80s and low 90% in success rate for most of his career.

Once known as a big bat, with an even bigger arm and glove, the big seven-year contract Yankees GM Brian Cashman gave Hicks looks worse every day.

Expect him to be traded by the deadline, as Hicks will have acquired 10-5 rights if not moved before August. That gives Hicks the power to veto any trade he is involved him. It would be unwise to let go of Hicks without getting something back in return, whether it is some offloaded salary, a PTBNL, or a low to mid-tier prospect.