The New York Yankees are indeed eyeing a trade for a “star infielder,” indicating a potential major shake-up to fill holes at second base and utility spots. The biggest current rumors center on two players with unique value: Brendan Donovan and Jazz Chisholm Jr.
The pursuit of an infielder is crucial for the Yankees, as they lack definitive solutions at second base and third base for the 2026 season.
Primary Trade Targets
1. Brendan Donovan (St. Louis Cardinals)
- The Target: Donovan is not a traditional star in terms of power, but his versatility and elite on-base skills make him one of the most coveted trade targets this offseason.
- Yankees’ Need: Donovan is a Gold Glove-caliber defender who can play 2B, 3B, and all corner outfield spots, providing the defensive flexibility the Yankees desperately need. His career .361 OBP (he hit .287/.353/.422 in 2025) would be a massive boost to the top of the Yankees’ lineup.
- The Blockbuster Angle: The Cardinals, under new leadership, are actively shopping Donovan, who has two years of club control remaining. The Yankees are viewed as a strong potential landing spot, likely offering a package of controllable pitching and lower-level offensive prospects.
2. Jazz Chisholm Jr. (Miami Marlins)
- The Wildcard: Chisholm is the more traditional “star” infielder, coming off a massive 30-home run, 30-stolen base season in 2025.
- The Trade Scenario: MLB analysts have suggested that the Yankees might consider trading Chisholm, who is currently their second baseman, as he is entering his final year of arbitration and the Yankees have been lukewarm on a long-term extension. Chisholm could bring back a “significant return” in prospects to address the team’s needs at third base or in the rotation.
- The Implication: Trading Chisholm would be a shocking move, as it would create the exact hole the Yankees are trying to fill, but it would maximize his trade value while he’s at his peak performance.
Other Notable Infielder Rumors
- Nolan Arenado (St. Louis Cardinals): Though a long shot due to his large remaining contract, the Yankees were linked to trade talks in early 2025, which could be re-engaged if the Cardinals agree to absorb a massive amount of his remaining salary.
- Carlos Correa (Minnesota Twins): Predicted by some to be a target to fill the void at third base, though his large contract and history with the Astros would make any deal controversial.
Major Shake-Up on the Horizon
The consensus among analysts is that the Yankees will use their prospect capital (primarily Spencer Jones and Jasson Domínguez) to acquire established, controllable talent. Whether it’s to acquire a versatile star like Donovan or trade away a superstar like Chisholm, the Yankees are expected to make a dramatic, impact move at the Winter Meetings to finalize their 2026 championship roster.
