The New York Yankees are considering significant trade options following the injury to Oswaldo Cabrera, their third baseman, which has intensified the need to strengthen that position before the trade deadline. Interest in acquiring players like Josh Jung from the Texas Rangers and Nolan Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals has surfaced as the team looks to maintain its competitiveness in the American League.
Potential Addition of Josh Jung to Address Third Base Concerns
For some time, the Yankees’ search for a solid third baseman has been a major talking point with fans growing increasingly frustrated over the front office’s handling of the position. Recently, Pinstripe Territory host Derek Levandowski suggested that the Yankees could pursue Josh Jung from the Texas Rangers in a trade.
Levandowski highlighted Jung’s defensive skills, describing him as “an elite defender” who also carries offensive upside, recalling a season where Jung hit 23 home runs. He added,
“I like this guy. Defensively, he reminds me of like a young Matt Chapman. He’s that kind of fielder. And I think there’s room to grow offensively.”
Jung’s health has been a concern, as he played only 46 games last season due to injuries, though this year he has appeared in 43 games, batting .288 with seven home runs and a 131 OPS+. Despite this, the Rangers may be reluctant to trade him unless the Yankees offer a valuable package, possibly including top prospects.
Oswaldo Cabrera’s Injury Leaves Yankees Seeking Reinforcements
The urgency for the Yankees to find a reliable third baseman grew stronger after Oswaldo Cabrera suffered a serious injury. Manager Aaron Boone recently addressed Cabrera’s condition, indicating that his return this season is doubtful.
Boone stated,
“I would say probably unlikely [he returns this season], but we probably won’t know until a week, 10 days in to where we get the doctors’ protocols and then the ramp up as you go,”
adding,
“It was a little more involved in there, but all things considered, fairly successful, too.”
This injury has increased pressure on the Yankees to make a trade that bolsters the infield and prevents further instability at the hot corner.
Trade Deadline Options: Balancing Third Base and Pitching Needs
The Yankees face the challenge of strengthening both their pitching staff and the third base position to deepen their postseason chances. Although they currently lead the American League, experts believe adding a standout position player could be pivotal for a World Series bid.
Alexander Wilson from Empire Sports Media suggests the Yankees should seriously consider acquiring Nolan Arenado to solidify third base, pointing out Arenado’s strong defensive reputation despite a less dominant offensive year in 2025.
Wilson observed,
“If the Yankees want a true impact move, a call to the St. Louis Cardinals about Nolan Arenado might resurface. Arenado hasn’t been elite in 2025, but his glove remains Gold Glove caliber and his offensive ceiling is still dangerous. If the Yankees are serious about winning now, that could be the kind of swing they need — depending on the asking price — they would need a ton of money kicked in from the Cardinals.”
Other potential options include players like Yoan Moncada from the Los Angeles Angels, contingent on team negotiations and contract decisions.
Implications of Possible Trades for the Yankees’ Championship Aspirations
The Yankees’ decision to pursue established third basemen such as Jung or Arenado reflects their commitment to overcoming the setback caused by Cabrera’s injury. Strengthening this position could prevent further struggles that have affected their infield performance in recent months.
The timing of the trade deadline makes these discussions crucial, as the Yankees look to balance cost, player health, and immediate impact on their roster. Successfully acquiring a player with proven defensive skills and offensive potential would enhance the team’s lineup and solidify their place as strong contenders in the postseason.
With the Yankees’ experience in pursuing high-profile trades, the coming weeks are likely to determine whether they can address a key weakness and maintain their position among the favorites to win the World Series this season.