Yankees rumors haven’t included many third basemen not named Josh Harrison and Todd Frazier. But now they could possibly be in the mix for Travis Shaw.
Some Yankees rumors seem so farfetched until they turn into an actual trade, causing commotion among fans or a joyous uproar. While it may seem like a long shot, the New York Yankees could potentially acquire Travis Shaw.
Jim Bowden linked the third baseman to New York as a possible move if Milwaukee signs Mike Moustakas. But no other sources mentioned the Yankees and any interest in the former Red Sox infielder.
Shaw was a major surprise in 2017 to just about everyone. The left-handed slugger smacked a career-high 31 home runs and racked up more than 100 RBIs. Due to his durability, he also led the Brewers in overall hits with 147.
Furthermore, he contributed 10 stolen bases and increased his walk rate compared to his first few seasons in the MLB.
#Brewers continue to be “in” on RHP Jake Arrieta & also 3B Michael Moustakas with the idea that if they signed Moustakas they could trade Travis Shaw to NYY, ATL or NYM according to a club source.
— Jim Bowden⚾️🏈 (@JimBowdenGM) January 15, 2018
Shaw continues to develop as he’s just 27 years old. He is pre-arbitration eligible, so he could be a bargain prior to entering free agency in 2022.
The Yankees have an open spot on the roster for a corner infielder, and other well-known infielders – Moustakas – are too costly. As everyone knows, Todd Frazier expressed his desire to return to the Bronx, but he and general manager Brian Cashman can’t agree on a contract.
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New York could expand its horizon to find a cheaper option, whether it means signing someone to a one-year deal or trading mid-tier prospects for them. Or the Yankees might look for a temporary asset until they can sign Manny Machado after the upcoming season.
If they for some reason acquire Shaw, it would likely be for multiple years. A positive aspect about Shaw, however, is that he can play either of the corner infield positions. Yet, with Greg Bird being the franchise’s first baseman, Shaw wouldn’t be needed on an everyday basis at first.
Dominoes would have to tip for this rumor to become something more. Bowden said the Brewers would likely have to sign Moustakas or another renowned corner infielder to part ways with Shaw.
If Milwaukee doesn’t acquire a proven producer for the position, it seems that they will keep Shaw for the long haul. There aren’t many reasons to support sending Shaw away unless they can find a better replacement.
He ranked ahead of Moustakas and other solid players, such as Jake Lamb in OPS and WAR. Surpisingly, he finished ahead of Machado in WAR, OPS, RBIs and other categories despite logging fewer at-bats.
Thus, it’s clear that Shaw could be a long-term option for any team at third base. And if, for some reason, the Yankees are willing to take that chance in the future, Shaw could be donning pinstripes one day.
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Nevertheless, many more moves need to occur before this becomes a possibility. Until the idea gains more serious publicity and traction, it’s nothing more than another implausible Yankees rumor.
At this point, it’s just a hypothetical situation for Milwaukee.