New York Yankees- The New York Yankees are actively searching for upgrades at third base, and one MLB analyst suggests they could find a solution by trading with a rival team. Jacob Mountz, an analyst for FanSided, believes the Yankees should target Jeff McNeil, the versatile infielder from the New York Mets. Despite McNeil’s underwhelming 2024 season, Mountz sees him as an ideal fit for the Yankees, both in terms of talent and potential for a fresh start.

McNeil’s 2024 performance was disappointing, with a slash line of .238/.308/.384 and 12 home runs in 424 at-bats. These numbers were far from the .326 batting average he posted in 2022, when he won a batting title. His struggles were largely attributed to a poor first half and a wrist injury that ended his season early. However, Mountz highlights McNeil’s strong second half, where he hit .289, showing that he was finding his form before the injury. Despite his past injury issues, McNeil’s track record suggests he could be rejuvenated with a change of scenery.

One key reason Mountz believes McNeil would thrive with the Yankees is the potential for him to take advantage of the short right-field porch at Yankee Stadium. While McNeil is not a natural power hitter, his hitting profile as a slap hitter who pulls the ball could translate into more home runs in the Bronx. According to Baseball Savant, McNeil’s power numbers could surge, with projections suggesting he would have hit 19 home runs in Yankee Stadium during the 2024 season, compared to the 12 he recorded in Citi Field. Mountz even speculates that McNeil could become a 25-home run hitter at Yankee Stadium.

McNeil is entering the third year of a four-year, $50 million contract, with an option for a fifth year. Mountz believes the Mets could be open to trading him, particularly as they look to free up resources to potentially re-sign star slugger Pete Alonso. For McNeil, a move to the Yankees could offer a fresh start after a tough season, and his contract makes him an affordable option for New York.

At 33 years old, McNeil still has the potential to bounce back and return to his previous form, which would make him a valuable asset for the Yankees. His versatility, able to play both second and third base, adds roster flexibility, which would be beneficial for New York. The Yankees currently have DJ LeMahieu penciled in as their starting third baseman, but his recent injury history makes McNeil an appealing backup option.

Acquiring McNeil would not only provide the Yankees with a steady infielder but also bolster their bottom-of-the-order lineup. The cost to acquire him likely wouldn’t be prohibitive, making him a low-risk, high-reward option for a team looking to contend in the American League East. In summary, Mountz’s recommendation of McNeil as a trade target offers a potential solution for the Yankees’ third-base woes, while also giving the Mets a chance to retool their roster.