Yankees Linked to $1.5 Million Former Fan Favorite as Possible Trade Target
As the New York Yankees prepare for the 2024 season, a big question must be answered regarding how they’ll fill the void left by Gerrit Cole’s injury. But now that third baseman DJ LeMahieu is also dealing with an injury, could the Bombers look to make a trade for Detroit Tigers infielder Gio Urshela?
MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch floated it as an idea on March 18. “Here’s something: Gio Urshela isn’t a lock to win the everyday 3B job for the Tigers. Could the Yankees swing a trade?” he said on X (formerly Twitter).
LeMahieu was expected to be the Yankees’ starting third baseman. He’s now dealing with a bone bruise in his right foot that’s putting his status for Opening Day in doubt. Oswald Peraza would’ve been the next player in line to take his place, but he’s sidelined with a shoulder injury. That leaves utility fielder Oswaldo Cabrera as another internal option. However, he’s struggled to a .209/.292/.302 line in 48 plate appearances this spring. His taking over third base for the time being would also leave New York’s bench short on depth.
That’s where Urshela could come into play. New York had interest in bringing the former Yankee back to the Bronx this winter before he signed a $1.5 million deal with Detroit.
Urshela Found Himself During His First Tour in the Bronx
The 32-year-old spent three seasons with the Yankees, playing for New York between 2019 and 2021. His tenure in the Bronx was some of his best work as a big leaguer — especially at the plate.
Before landing with the Yankees, he appeared in parts of three seasons for the Cleveland Guardians and Toronto Blue Jays between 2015 and 2018. Urshela’s offense left a lot to be desired across 499 plate appearances. The infielder hit .225/.274/.316 with eight home runs and 39 RBI.
