Yankees Trade Proposal: $24 Million Infielder for Top Prospect Spencer Jones
The New York Yankees may be seeking a keystone upgrade this offseason.
After spending seven seasons in the Bronx, including earning two early-career All-Star selections, second baseman Gleyber Torres has entered free agency. Torres experienced inconsistency at the plate this past season, bouncing between the leadoff spot and other roles, while also committing a league-leading 18 errors at second base. These defensive struggles have pushed the Yankees to explore alternatives for the position.
If Torres departs, the Yankees could target a promising replacement through trade. Michael Brakebill of FanSided suggested a bold move to acquire a new second baseman from the Tampa Bay Rays by trading one of the Yankees’ top prospects, Spencer Jones, in a straight one-for-one deal.
“The New York Yankees should capitalize on the Rays’ cost-cutting strategy and acquire Brandon Lowe, their slugging second baseman,” Brakebill proposed. “With Torres in free agency, Lowe’s power-hitting and lefty swing could thrive in Yankee Stadium with the short porch in right field.”
This past season, Lowe hit .244/.311/.473 with 21 home runs and 58 RBIs, numbers comparable to Torres’. However, Lowe excelled defensively, committing no errors in 58 games at second base. He also played 11 games at first base, potentially addressing another need for the Yankees following Anthony Rizzo’s exit.
The Rays seem to be focusing on reducing payroll, as evidenced by trades involving Tyler Glasnow, Randy Arozarena, Isaac Paredes, and Jose Siri since last offseason. Lowe, under a six-year, $24 million extension signed in 2019, is set to earn $10.5 million in 2025 with an $11.5 million club option for 2026. This makes him a more affordable option than re-signing Torres, possibly motivating the Rays to trade him for future talent.
Jones, however, represents a significant price. As the Yankees’ second-ranked prospect, the imposing outfielder has drawn comparisons to Aaron Judge. The Yankees reportedly refused to include Jones in trade discussions for Dylan Cease last offseason, signaling his potential “untouchable” status.
Still, the Yankees might consider trading Jones if they view Lowe as a crucial infield upgrade in their pursuit of a championship.
“The Rays prioritize building an elite farm system, and landing Jones would align with their strategy. Meanwhile, the Yankees, coming off a World Series loss, are in win-now mode,” Brakebill concluded.