As the 2024 season approaches, the New York Yankees face a significant dilemma: how to address the absence of Gerrit Cole due to injury. However, with the additional setback of third baseman DJ LeMahieu also being injured, speculation arises about whether the Yankees might explore trading for Detroit Tigers infielder Gio Urshela to fill the gap.
Bryan Hoch of MLB.com raised this possibility on March 18, suggesting that Urshela may not have a guaranteed starting role with the Tigers and proposing the idea of a potential trade for the Yankees.
Here's something: Gio Urshela isn't a lock to win the everyday 3B job for the Tigers. Could the Yankees swing a trade?
— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) March 18, 2024
LeMahieu, anticipated to hold the starting third baseman position for the Yankees, is now grappling with a bone bruise in his right foot, casting doubt on his availability for Opening Day. In his absence, Oswald Peraza would have been the natural successor, but he’s sidelined due to a shoulder injury. With limited internal options, utility fielder Oswaldo Cabrera is a consideration, although his underwhelming performance this spring raises concerns, and his promotion would deplete the team’s bench depth.
This predicament opens the door for Gio Urshela to enter the equation. The Yankees had expressed interest in reacquiring the former player during the offseason, but Urshela ultimately signed a $1.5 million deal with the Detroit Tigers.
Urshela Found Himself During His First Tour in the Bronx
During his three-year stint with the New York Yankees from 2019 to 2021, the 32-year-old infielder showcased some of his most impressive performances, particularly with his bat.
Prior to joining the Yankees, Urshela had seen limited success during his time with the Cleveland Guardians and Toronto Blue Jays from 2015 to 2018. Across 499 plate appearances, his offensive numbers were lackluster, as he posted a batting line of .225/.274/.316 with eight home runs and 39 RBI.
However, his fortunes changed dramatically upon donning the pinstripes. Over 1,099 plate appearances with the Yankees, Urshela significantly elevated his offensive output, batting .292/.335/.480 while amassing 41 home runs and 153 RBI. Even after departing from the Yankees and playing for the Minnesota Twins and the Los Angeles Angels, albeit with a shortened 2023 season due to injury, Urshela has sustained a respectable level of offensive production. Over his last 779 plate appearances, he has maintained a batting line of .290/.335/.413 with 15 home runs and 88 RBI, as reported by Baseball-Reference.
This Type of Deal Would Fit Within the Yankees’ Budget
The New York Yankees are facing heightened expectations as they approach the 2024 season, despite undergoing significant offseason changes. However, uncertainties loom due to injuries during spring training, notably Gerrit Cole’s anticipated absence. Amidst these challenges, the Yankees explored the possibility of signing Blake Snell, the 2023 National League Cy Young winner, before he ultimately joined the San Francisco Giants.
General manager Brian Cashman remains active in seeking pitching upgrades, considering options like re-engaging with former Yankee pitcher Jordan Montgomery. However, negotiations face a potential obstacle in Montgomery’s asking price, as he seeks a long-term contract valued around $172 million. Given the Yankees’ position above the highest luxury-tax threshold, each expenditure incurs a 110% tax burden, complicating the pursuit of significant acquisitions like Montgomery.
In contrast, acquiring players like Gio Urshela, who is playing under a one-year, $1.5 million deal for 2024, presents a more manageable financial scenario. The relatively lower cost and tax implications make such acquisitions more palatable for the Yankees amidst their financial constraints.
