New York Yankees: 3 landing spots for Gary Sanchez

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 01: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Gary Sanchez #24 of the New York Yankees in action against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on April 01, 2021 in New York City. The Blue Jays defeated the Yankees 3-2 in ten innings. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 01: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Gary Sanchez #24 of the New York Yankees in action against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on April 01, 2021 in New York City. The Blue Jays defeated the Yankees 3-2 in ten innings. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

At this point, it is clear that Gary Sanchez is no longer a part of the New York Yankees‘ future. He has been benched for Kyle Higashioka, a 31 year old career backup with a grand total of 204 plate appearances and a 59 OPS+ entering this season. But with the Yankees struggling, they are riding the hot hand.

But this also sends a clear message to Sanchez. His time in New York is over. Frankly, it should have ended this offseason, as the Yankees seemingly debated whether or not be bring him back before signing him to a $6.35 million deal. That is a contract that they would seemingly want back.

Finding a landing spot for New York Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez

It is also clear that Sanchez needs to be out of New York. He is being criticized in the media for seemingly everything possible, including his use of an interpreter. This is a toxic situation that is only going to get worse.

While his production has dropped off, Gary Sanchez is not a free agent until after the 2022 season and could return to his former glory in a new situation. Let’s look at three landing spots for the New York Yankees catcher.

Miami Marlins

If the actual New York Yankees are not working out, why not head to a team trying to emulate them?

The Miami Marlins had thought they had their catcher of the future with Jorge Alfaro, who was acquired as part of the blockbuster trade that had sent JT Realmuto to Philadelphia. However, due to injury and ineffectiveness, Alfaro has not become the player that the Marlins hoped for. Now on the Injured List, the Marlins currently have Chad Wallach and Sandy Leon behind the dish.

Sanchez may not be as adept defensively as Leon or Wallach have been, but his offensive potential would make a move worth considering. A two time All Star, he has hit 20 or more homers in a season three times, which would give Miami the power bat they need in their lineup.

The Marlins also have the benefit of a deep minor league system. While Sanchez may be at the nadir of his value, the Yankees are not likely to give him away. Miami has the type of lottery ticket prospects in the lower minors that could work to swing a deal for the former All Star.

The Miami Marlins want to emulate the New York Yankees. Why not bring in Gary Sanchez in hopes that he can get back on track?