The New York Yankees are reportedly targeting a major move this offseason, with sources indicating that they may pursue a high-profile infielder from the San Diego Padres—Jake Cronenworth. With the Padres looking to shed salary and potentially retool their roster, the Yankees could make a significant push for the 29-year-old, who is slated to earn $14 million in 2025. This potential blockbuster trade would not only add another versatile piece to the Yankees’ lineup but could address several weaknesses in the team’s infield, providing the much-needed stability the franchise has been craving.
Jake Cronenworth: A Key Target
Jake Cronenworth has established himself as one of the most versatile and reliable players for the Padres in recent years. He’s a switch-hitter with experience across multiple positions, having played second base, shortstop, and first base. This positional flexibility is a key factor that makes him such an appealing target for the Yankees, who have dealt with injuries and inconsistent play from their infield over the last few seasons.
Cronenworth’s contract, which runs through the 2027 season, is manageable for a player of his caliber. At $14 million for the 2025 season, he represents a significant but not overwhelming financial commitment. This fits well within the Yankees’ budget, as they are looking to bolster their roster while maintaining financial flexibility. Despite not being a superstar, Cronenworth has been an invaluable player for the Padres, providing solid defense and offensive consistency.
A Versatile Fit for the Yankees
One of the Yankees’ primary weaknesses in recent years has been their infield. Despite having players like DJ LeMahieu, Gleyber Torres, and Anthony Rizzo, the Yankees have struggled to find consistent production from their middle infield spots. Injuries and underperformance have left the team searching for reliable contributors. Cronenworth could be a perfect solution to this problem, offering the Yankees the kind of stability they have been lacking.
Cronenworth’s defensive versatility allows him to play nearly anywhere in the infield, which would give Yankees manager Aaron Boone flexibility in setting lineups. He has a proven track record as a solid second baseman, but his ability to shift to shortstop or first base if needed would be invaluable to a team that has dealt with injuries to key players in recent years. Whether it’s giving LeMahieu a rest or stepping in for an injured player, Cronenworth’s presence would help solidify the Yankees’ infield depth.
Offensive Profile: Solid But Not Spectacular
Offensively, Cronenworth brings a consistent, albeit not flashy, approach to the plate. Over the past few seasons, he has posted a respectable batting average of .240 to .270, with a solid on-base percentage. He is not known for his power, but he has the ability to hit for doubles and drive in key runs. His plate discipline is above average, evidenced by his solid walk rate, which would further help a Yankees lineup that sometimes struggles with pitching depth.
In 2023, Cronenworth posted a .242/.324/.378 slash line with 10 home runs and 60 RBIs. While these numbers are not jaw-dropping, his overall consistency would provide a much-needed stabilizing force in the Yankees’ lineup, which has often leaned too heavily on home runs and power hitting. Cronenworth’s ability to make contact and get on base would add balance to a Yankees offense that at times has struggled to string together hits.
Trade Possibilities and Financial Flexibility
The Padres are reportedly looking to reduce payroll and retool their roster, making Cronenworth a logical trade candidate. The Yankees, with their financial resources, could make a competitive offer for the infielder, potentially including top prospects like outfielder Jasson Domínguez or shortstop Anthony Volpe. While the Padres would likely seek young, cost-controlled players, the Yankees have the talent in their system to make an enticing offer.
Adding Cronenworth at a reasonable price would give the Yankees flexibility, especially if they’re able to clear up some of their current contracts or make other trades to add pitching help. At $14 million, Cronenworth would be a bargain compared to other marquee infielders, offering solid value and the potential to improve the Yankees in both the short and long term.
Conclusion
The New York Yankees are in a unique position to pursue Jake Cronenworth, and acquiring the Padres infielder would fill a number of holes on their roster. His versatility, defensive stability, and consistent offensive production would make him an excellent fit for the Yankees. With the Padres potentially looking to reduce payroll, this offseason could see a blockbuster trade that helps the Yankees remain competitive in the American League, potentially pushing them toward another World Series run in 2025.
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