Yankees Eyeing Right-Handed Bat, but Won't Touch This All-Star Third Baseman
Despite an obvious hole at third base and a stated need for more right-handed power, the New York Yankees have no interest in Cardinals star Nolan Arenado, according to a new report from SNY's Andy Martino.
That's not a misprint. Zero interest.
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Martino writes that 'the next time the Yankees are interested will be the first time' when it comes to Arenado.
Instead, the team's top trade priority remains adding a right-handed bat regardless of position. Their goal is to give manager Aaron Boone better late-game options against tough left-handed relievers, Martino reports, especially in matchups where Pablo Reyes and Oswald Peraza might be exposed.
The front office made a minor move in that direction Thursday, claiming right-handed outfielder Bryan De La Cruz off waivers from Atlanta. De La Cruz was sent to Triple-A but now sits on the 40-man roster and could be called upon if needed.
St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado hits a solo walk-off home run against the Milwaukee Brewers during the ninth inning at Busch Stadium on April 26, 2025.© Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
Still, that is obviously not the answer.
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New York continues to monitor the market, not just for bats but also for pitching, though options are fading. Martino notes that earlier targets like Dylan Cease, Michael King, and Sandy Alcantara are no longer realistic. The Padres are back in playoff contention, while Alcantara, recovering from Tommy John, has struggled badly with an 8.31 ERA.
So while fans might dream about a Gold Glove upgrade at third, the Yankees are thinking differently. They want flexibility, not flash. They always have, and Arenado has never been on their radar.
To be fair, Martino has said this before and it makes sense. The Yankees have seen what has happened to aging infielders like DJ LeMahieu and Anthony Rizzo and aren't in a hurry to get caught with another.
But, perhaps if the Atlanta Braves continue to struggle, the Yankees could upgrade at this base with Austin Riley.
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The Yankees' midseason shopping list is growing, but it's more focused. A power righty bat remains atop the list, but just don't expect it to come with Arenado's name attached.
Related: After Clarke Schmidt is Scratched From Start the Yankees' Need to Find More Pitching
Related: May 3 Isn't Just Another Day in Yankees History
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