The New York Yankees are off to a good start in a potential return to the World Series, but the injuries are racking up.
After franchise ace Gerrit Cole and reigning American League Rookie of the Year Luis Gil went down with significant ailments before the season even started, the Yankees have now lost Jazz Chisholm Jr. to an injured list stint as well. And veterans Giancarlo Stanton and DJ LeMahieu have yet to play a game this year.
On Saturday, the Yankees endured their latest injury scare when shortstop Anthony Volpe felt a “pop” in his shoulder after diving for a ground-ball single. Now, the team is probably going to opt for further evaluation while hoping he’s avoided a serious injury.
“It is likely Volpe will undergo an MRI before being completely cleared,” per MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch. “Volple said he didn’t know if or when that would take place.”
If the Yankees do lose Volpe along with Chisholm, it could prompt some drastic action. And a trade solution might emerge from the division rival Toronto Blue Jays.
“Whether they’re competitive at the trade deadline or not, you can expect the Blue Jays to shop shortstop Bo Bichette this season,” wrote FanSided’s Zach Pressnell. “Don’t be surprised if the Blue Jays trade Bo Bichette before the deadline.”
Follow The Sporting News On WhatsApp
After granting their franchise slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. a $500 million extension, speculation is growing that the Blue Jays will be shopping their shortstop before he has the chance to test free agency when his $33 million contract runs out at the end of this season.
Given his pending free agency and an offensive slump that persisted throughout 2024, the Blue Jays could be willing to deal Bichette away, even to a rival organization, for a relatively affordable cost. And Bichette would be a significant infield solution if the Yankees are without Chisholm and Volpe for an extended period.
More MLB: Red Sox Alex Cora offers 3-word response on Rafael Devers first base move