Remember the former Yankees utilityman who signed a $15 million contract with the Blue Jays in 2023? His two years with the Yankees were inconsistent. As the everyday shortstop in 2022, his defensive woes and low .642 OPS made him quite a polarizing figure, leading to a postseason benching. He found his stride in 2023, however, transforming into a utility player. But the Yankees, already having Oswaldo Cabrera, didn’t see him as a long-term fit, as he eventually moved on.
We are talking about Isiah Kiner-Falefa, yes. It looks like the fans are up for a surprise. With the Yanks in the hunt for someone to play multiple positions, Kiner-Falefa’s name has re-emerged now. MLB insider Bob Nightengale feels a reunion is on the cards.
“The New York Yankees and San Francisco Giants are keeping a close eye on versatile Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who should be available at the trade deadline,” Nightengale wrote in his column for USA Today.
Kiner-Falefa, who is with the Pittsburgh Pirates now, has gone at an average of .275 with a .319 OBP and a .661 OPS this season. It is reasonable to argue that his ability to play a variety of positions sets him apart. The Yankees have been looking for defensive assistance lately, with the mounting injury list and IKF could provide the desired depth. The utility player spot is vacant anyway, so chances are high of a probable reunion.
But it’s worth noting that IKF wasn’t popular among the fans when he was with the Yankees, as he was often criticized and booed for his wobbly performance at the plate. Eventually, that led to him becoming a utility player.
Meanwhile, there’s another team that’s eyeing IKF as well.
San Francisco Giants are also in the hunt for Isiah Kiner-Falefa
The San Francisco Giants have enough starting pitching options, along with an elite bullpen and a good number of hitters, to make it to the playoffs. However, they are in need of strengthening their infield. Who better than Isiah Kiner-Falefa? His ability to play in several infield positions remains his significant asset.
The Giants’ infield depth is getting crowded. The recent acquisition of Rafael Devers means he will eventually play first base. Matt Chapman, their third baseman, is recovering from a hand sprain. His replacement, Casey Schmitt, has been playing so well that the team might manage without Chapman for now. However, adding a player like IKF would further bolster their depth, likely sending Christian Koss or Brett Wisely to the minors.
Kiner-Falefa would be a rental player for any new team, as his two-year, $15 million contract, signed with the Blue Jays before the 2024 season, expires this year. Who do you think will eventually get him – the Yankees or the Giants?
The post Yankees Eye Unexpected Reunion With Former Unpopular Player Ahead of MLB Trade Deadline appeared first on EssentiallySports.
