The New York Yankees have regained momentum with four straight wins after a period of instability that cost them the American League East lead. As the team aims to strengthen its playoff candidacy, addressing weaknesses at third base has become a critical priority, with Ramón Urías emerging as a promising solution to enhance the squad’s defense and depth.
Challenges in Securing High-Profile Third Basemen
The Yankees have explored acquiring established third basemen such as Nolan Arenado and Ryan McMahon to fortify their infield. However, Arenado’s apparent unwillingness to leave the St. Louis Cardinals and the Colorado Rockies’ hesitation to negotiate with New York on McMahon complicate these prospects. Consequently, the Yankees are considering less high-profile but potentially effective alternatives as the trade deadline approaches.
Ramón Urías: An Undervalued Option for New York’s Third Base
At 31 years old, Ramón Urías, a utility infielder with the Baltimore Orioles, stands out as a viable candidate. Despite a modest .246 batting average featuring six home runs and 29 RBIs over 66 games this season, Urías is recognized for his strong defensive skills and particular success against left-handed pitching. Industry analysts view him as an upgrade over the Yankees’ current third base option, Oswald Peraza.
Mike Axisa from CBS Sports highlights that with the Orioles expected to begin trading players at the deadline, Urías—who remains under team control through 2026—presents a practical target to reinforce New York’s infield. His acquisition would boost defensive reliability and add depth to the lineup without the complications often associated with star-level trades.
Impact of Acquiring Urías on the Yankees’ Playoff Outlook
The Yankees recently traded veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu, amplifying the urgency to fill the void at third base. Incorporating a player like Ramón Urías could provide the Yankees with the defensive stability and lineup flexibility needed for a strong postseason run. Though he may lack the spotlight of marquee players, Urías’s skill set offers a strategic advantage that could significantly influence the team’s performance as the season advances.