MLB Rumors: More MadBum fallout, Aaron Hicks destinations, prospect proves Cubs wrong
By Mark Powell
MLB Rumors: Where does Aaron Hicks go from here?
The New York Yankees designated Aaron Hicks for assignment over the weekend. While he had three hits in his second-to-last outing in New York, there wasn’t a role for him with the Bronx Bombers and ultimately, he’s better off signing elsewhere. The Yankees will eat over $27 million in the process thanks to a bad extension handed out by Brian Cashman.
When Hicks is allowed to sign with any team, a few do stand out as potential suitors. FanSided’s Kevin Henry listed the Padres, Marlins and Twins over the weekend. Minnesota arguably makes the most sense, as they’ve already taken on one former Yankees reject in Joey Gallo, which has been a successful pairing:
"“It’s possible for Hicks, who might slot in nicely in center field, an area where the Twins are hoping to minimize the chance for injury to Byron Buxton by penciling him in as designated hitter when they can. However, even with Buxton patrolling center field, the Twins are tied for next-to-last among all MLB clubs in center field bWAR at minus-0.4.”"
Considering Buxton’s injury history, having Hicks play in center field, where he is an above-average defender, makes some sense. Hicks may never have the best offensive statistics, especially if he picks up where he left off in New York. Still, he’s better than the .188/.263/.261 slash line his baseball-reference page suggests.
With the pressure off in a smaller market, don’t be surprised to see Hicks pop up somewhere rather quickly.