Yankees Pivoting on Bellinger, Could Target Bo Bichette - Trade for Jazz Chisholm Jr. Looms as Possibility
The New York Yankees' pursuit of Cody Bellinger appears to be stalled, but a potential solution has emerged: signing Bo Bichette in free agency. The Toronto Blue Jays' shortstop has been consistently linked to the Bronx Bombers this offseason, and it's possible that landing Bichette could lead to a trade involving star second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr.
With only one year left on his contract, the Yankees may view trading Chisholm as a necessary step to make room for Bichette. According to MLB.com's Thomas Harrigan, signing Bichette would raise questions about Chisholm's future with the organization and put pressure on the club to trade him before spring training.
Chisholm had a breakout season in 2023, earning his second All-Star selection and setting career highs for home runs (31) and RBIs (80). However, his floor is considered lower compared to Bichette's. While Chisholm boasts power, signing Bichette would be a more advantageous move for the Yankees.
There isn't an obvious fit for Bichette in New York's infield beyond shortstop, where Anthony Volpe will miss Opening Day after undergoing left shoulder surgery. If the Yankees land Bichette, it could lead to Chisholm becoming available via trade. This development has raised concerns about the club's long-term commitment to Chisholm.
With spring training approaching, the Yankees' decision on Chisholm's future will become increasingly pressing. Trading away a player who may be considered a "camp distraction" like Rafael Devers with the Red Sox could be beneficial for the organization.
The New York Yankees' pursuit of Cody Bellinger appears to be stalled, but a potential solution has emerged: signing Bo Bichette in free agency. The Toronto Blue Jays' shortstop has been consistently linked to the Bronx Bombers this offseason, and it's possible that landing Bichette could lead to a trade involving star second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr.
With only one year left on his contract, the Yankees may view trading Chisholm as a necessary step to make room for Bichette. According to MLB.com's Thomas Harrigan, signing Bichette would raise questions about Chisholm's future with the organization and put pressure on the club to trade him before spring training.
Chisholm had a breakout season in 2023, earning his second All-Star selection and setting career highs for home runs (31) and RBIs (80). However, his floor is considered lower compared to Bichette's. While Chisholm boasts power, signing Bichette would be a more advantageous move for the Yankees.
There isn't an obvious fit for Bichette in New York's infield beyond shortstop, where Anthony Volpe will miss Opening Day after undergoing left shoulder surgery. If the Yankees land Bichette, it could lead to Chisholm becoming available via trade. This development has raised concerns about the club's long-term commitment to Chisholm.
With spring training approaching, the Yankees' decision on Chisholm's future will become increasingly pressing. Trading away a player who may be considered a "camp distraction" like Rafael Devers with the Red Sox could be beneficial for the organization.