The New York Yankees will need to make some moves at the trade deadline to prepare for a deep run in October.
For now, they’re focusing on helping the bullpen and inquiring about starting pitchers, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post on MLB Network. High heat with Chris “Mad Dog” Russo.
But that may not be the only area they’re looking to improve. According to Heyman, the Yankees could be looking to trade an infielder, and one of the names the insider mentioned is Jonathan India, who is currently playing in the Bronx this week as an opponent of the Cincinnati Reds.
What areas will the Mets and Yankees address at the trade deadline?@MadDogUnleashed | @JonHeyman pic.twitter.com/82lJ6CKS8W
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) July 3, 2024
India is having a good season and can play second and third base, which is why Heyman sees him as a good fit for the Yankees. The 27-year-old is under control for two more seasons, so he could cost a bit more if traded, but his impact has been significant in 2024 via a .275/.381/.405 batting line, a .786 OPS, five homers and 34 RBIs in 78 games.
India won the National League Rookie of the Year award with the Reds in 2021. After a slump as a sophomore, he rebounded to hit .245 with a .745 OPS and 17 home runs last season.
As impressive as India’s offensive play has been this year, he’s been hitting very hot in his last 30 games, batting .370 with a 1.033 OPS. In his last 15 games, he’s hitting .407, and last week, India hit .440.
Infielders Gleyber Torres and DJ LeMahieu have shown signs of life of late. And top prospect Ben Rice has also been solid at first base. But a trade to India would help the Yankees contend for a World Series title and give them an option at second base for the next two years if Torres leaves as a free agent after the season.
