New York Yankees ready to make change at short

Sep 30, 2021; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) reacts after hitting a two run home run against Toronto Blue Jays in the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2021; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) reacts after hitting a two run home run against Toronto Blue Jays in the sixth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

It was not that long ago that the New York Yankees appeared to have their present and future at short. Gleyber Torres may have been an adventure defensively at times, but his excellent production at the plate had given him a permanent spot in the lineup. But things have changed since the end of the 2019 season, as Torres has struggled with the bat and glove.

It has gotten to the point where even the Yankees realize something needs to be done. General manager Brian Cashman called shortstop “an area of need” and said that it needs to be addressed this offseason.

New York Yankees ready to address at least one shortcoming

This does not mean that Torres is no longer in their plans. The Yankees simply regard him as a second baseman now, although that presumably depends on whether or not his bat can get back to a productive level. Torres’ ‘assignment’ as a second baseman may not last long otherwise.

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Meanwhile, this is the perfect year to address shortstop. The list of potential free agents includes some of the best players in the game, with the likes of Carlos Correa, Trevor Story, and Corey Seager, amongst others, all set to hit the market. If ever the Yankees are going to address the position, this is the offseason to do so.

Likewise, the Yankees need to start to make moves that show they are serious about winning. Changing over the coaching staff, and throwing their full support behind Aaron Boone, only goes so far. The Yankees need the players that can make a difference.

Fixing their hole at shortstop will help. The Yankees need far more than just one player, as the pitching staff needs to be revamped and the team should find something that can actually play center field. But at least the front office is acknowledging that something needs to happen.

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The New York Yankees are ready to find a new shortstop this offseason. That should not be the end of their shopping list.