3 outfielders for New York Yankees to target at trade deadline
By David Hill
Ian Happ
The New York Yankees do not have many outfielders that can play all three positions. Aaron Judge theoretically could, and Aaron Hicks has in the past, but the Yankees need someone that can handle that utility outfielder role.
Ian Happ could do that and, potentially, much more. He can play all three spots in the outfield, as well as second and third, giving the Yankees another super utility player. Happ is another player that would be a longer term answer as well as he has another year of team control left after this season.
He would certainly be an upgrade over Hicks in that fourth outfielder spot. Happ has posted a .280/.382/.457 batting line in his 301 plate appearances entering Friday, hitting eight homers and 17 doubles. He is also setting personal bests in walk and strikeout rate, as he is showing far more discipline at the plate.
Defense would be an issue. Happ is below average at every position on the diamond with the glove which runs contrary to the Yankees’ new mindset. However, the upgrade he provides with the bat would be worth those issues with the glove.
Next. Examining Michael King's dominance. dark
The New York Yankees want more production from their outfield. Ian Happ may not be great defensively, but he would be an upgrade offensively.