New York Yankees future does not include Miguel Andujar

New York Yankees third baseman Miguel Andujar has gone from a potential building block to an afterthought.

Just three or four months ago, Miguel Andujar looked like a part of the future for the New York Yankees. The fanbase was in an uproar when Shohei Ohtani won the AL Rookie of the Year award over Andujar, as they felt he was far more valuable to a winning club. Andujar seemed destined to be the next bright young star for the Yankees to build around.

And then, the offseason began. Despite concerns over his lack of hustle, the Yankees emerged as one of the potential landing spots for Manny Machado. Of course, given the injury to Didi Gregorius, Machado could have just played short. Then, the Yankees signed Troy Tulowitzki to a one year deal to potentially serve as Gregorius’ replacement at the start of the year.

These additions, whether having actually been made or will potentially happen, cast doubt on Andujar’s future in New York. He has never played a position other than third base professionally, making Andujar somewhat limited defensively. It is possible he could shift across the diamond to first, but the Yankees may want to see what they have in Luke Voit. They are also interested in Bryce Harper, potentially looking to move him to first given their crowded outfield.

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So where does that leave Andujar? He certainly did his part to stake a claim to a major league spot last season, producing a solid .297/.328/.527 batting line, hitting 27 homers and 47 doubles. However, he was a major liability in the field, costing the Yankees 25 runs at third, the worst mark in the majors.

Given his defensive shortcomings, a move to either first or towards a more full time role as a designated hitter would seem to be the best option for Andujar. Either move would keep his bat in the lineup, and should Machado don the pinstripes next year, improve the Yankees defensive makeup. But there just is not room for Andujar at either spot.

Instead, if Andujar is to help the Yankees over the long term, it is likely as a trade chip. It is possible that he ends up being packaged to bring in another pitcher, either for the bullpen or the rotation. Or, should the Yankees have truly soured on Gary Sanchez, Andujar could be part of a package to bring back a catcher, perhaps leading to J.T. Realmuto.

Miguel Andujar had a strong 2018 campaign for the New York Yankees, finishing second in the AL Rookie of the Year vote. However, he may not have a long term role in New York.