New York Yankees: Gary Sanchez needs a change of scenery

Gary Sanchez’s time with the New York Yankees has run its course. Both parties need a change of scenery to move forward.

Gary Sanchez was supposed to be the next in the long line of star catchers in New York Yankees history. He had begun his career with a great deal of promise before his down 2018 campaign. While he had a bounceback 2019 season, Sanchez struggled badly in 2020, being benched down the stretch for career backup Kyle Higashioka.

The catcher position had now become an area of concern for the Yankees. General manager Brian Cashman had stated that the position would be evaluated over the offseason. Now, there are reports that a part of that evaluation process has led the Yankees to place Sanchez on the trade block.

Sanchez had a miserable 2020 season, posting a .147/.253/.365 batting line in his 178 plate appearances. While he did hit ten homers and drew 18 walks, he also struck out 64 times. Sanchez also continued to struggle defensively, leading the AL in passed balls for the third time in the past four years while costing the Yankees three runs behind the plate.

At this point, it is clear that both sides need a fresh start. The Yankees have been linked to Yadier Molina, showing their seriousness in revamping the position. While he would not be a long term solution, he is still a definite upgrade defensively and could provide at least league average production with the bat.

It is also unclear as to what the Yankees could get for Sanchez. He made a pro-rated $5 million last season, and is likely to receive a small increase in arbitration. While he would have two more years of team control, his struggles in every facet of the game recently are definitely going to limit his trade value.

However, it is possible that Sanchez can thrive once again. While he will never be a brilliant defensive backstop, he has had success with the bat before. Getting out of New York could be just what he needs to jumpstart his career.

The New York Yankees are seemingly ready to move on from Gary Sanchez. It is a move that makes sense for both sides.