0As the New York Yankees look to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season, the team is already turning its attention to bolstering its roster for the 2024 campaign. One of the most intriguing predictions circulating through the MLB offseason is that the Yankees will target a “high baseball IQ” Gold Glove caliber player to complete their infield. This potential acquisition could be the missing piece the team needs to solidify both its defense and overall depth, creating a well-rounded roster that can compete for a postseason berth in the highly competitive American League.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why the Yankees may be looking to add such a player, who the potential candidates are, and how this move could help round out their infield, as well as elevate the team’s defense and overall chances for success in 2024.
### **The Yankees’ Current Infield Situation**
Heading into the 2024 season, the Yankees have several key infield spots locked in. At first base, veteran Anthony Rizzo, despite dealing with injury issues in 2023, is expected to be a cornerstone of the team’s offense and defense. At second base, Gleyber Torres, who has shown impressive offensive upside but remains inconsistent defensively, is likely to return. Shortstop remains in flux, though, with Isiah Kiner-Falefa providing some versatility and DJ LeMahieu, a former Gold Glove winner himself, also capable of playing a variety of infield positions.
However, third base is a position of concern. The Yankees struggled to find consistent production at the hot corner in 2023, with Josh Donaldson’s aging bat and injury issues limiting his impact. Additionally, LeMahieu’s declining range and health issues have led to questions about his ability to anchor the infield long-term.
While the Yankees have several promising infielders on the roster, the lack of a truly elite defensive presence at multiple spots has been a theme in recent seasons. This is where the addition of a “high baseball IQ” Gold Glove player could come into play. The team would benefit not only from improved defense but also from the presence of a player who understands the nuances of the game and can make smart, high-leverage decisions.
### **Why a “High Baseball IQ” Gold Glove is the Right Fit**
The phrase “high baseball IQ” is often thrown around, but it is especially critical for teams looking to compete in the postseason. In the high-pressure environment of October baseball, every decision—whether it’s positioning, knowing when to turn a double play, or making the right throw—becomes magnified. The Yankees, who have experienced their fair share of postseason failures in recent years, are well aware that these small moments can make the difference between advancing to the World Series or heading home early.
In addition to providing a solid glove, a player with a high baseball IQ can contribute in other, often overlooked ways. Whether it’s moving runners over, executing a hit-and-run, or simply being in the right place at the right time, a baseball-smart player enhances a team’s overall performance beyond just their offensive or defensive numbers. For the Yankees, this kind of player would be the glue that holds the infield together, creating better chemistry and contributing to the team’s overall focus.
Moreover, Gold Glove winners are typically players who not only have the physical tools but also the mental approach needed to thrive on defense. Such players possess the awareness to make split-second decisions that save runs, such as positioning themselves correctly or knowing when to take a risk and when to play it safe. This is crucial for a team like the Yankees, who, with their high expectations and a strong pitching staff, need an infield that can consistently support their hurlers.
### **Potential Candidates to Round Out the Yankees’ Infield**
Given the Yankees’ need for an elite defender with a high baseball IQ, a few names immediately come to mind as potential targets to round out the infield for 2024. These players are known for their defense, baseball intelligence, and ability to make an impact without necessarily needing to be superstars at the plate.
#### **1. Matt Chapman (3B, Toronto Blue Jays)**
One of the top candidates to bolster the Yankees’ infield defense is Matt Chapman, the two-time Gold Glove-winning third baseman for the Toronto Blue Jays. Chapman is widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in baseball, and his ability to make jaw-dropping plays at the hot corner is well-documented. A player with such a refined glove would instantly upgrade the Yankees’ infield defense, a position they’ve been trying to solidify for years.
Though Chapman’s bat has been inconsistent in recent seasons, he still offers plenty of power and could be an offensive asset in the middle of the Yankees’ lineup. His high baseball IQ, evident in his precise defensive positioning and decision-making, would mesh well with the Yankees’ focus on analytics and situational awareness. If the Yankees can secure Chapman’s services, he could provide the stability they need at third base while bringing a level of defensive mastery that would elevate the entire infield.
#### **2. Nico Hoerner (2B/SS, Chicago Cubs)**
While Hoerner is primarily known for his work at second base, he has also played shortstop and could provide the Yankees with versatility and elite defense at multiple positions. A Gold Glove finalist in 2023, Hoerner’s ability to make smooth, impactful plays has caught the eye of many analysts. His work ethic and understanding of the game align perfectly with the “high baseball IQ” tag, making him an intriguing fit for the Yankees.
Hoerner’s offensive profile is also solid, with the ability to get on base consistently and play a key role in moving runners. If the Yankees were to move Torres or LeMahieu around to other spots, Hoerner’s versatility would provide valuable flexibility. Adding Hoerner to the mix would solidify the Yankees’ infield defensively, while his presence would allow the team to avoid relying too heavily on any one player for stability.
#### **3. Andres Gimenez (2B/SS, Cleveland Guardians)**
Another intriguing candidate is Andres Gimenez, the Gold Glove-winning second baseman for the Cleveland Guardians. Gimenez, at just 25 years old, has quickly emerged as one of the most highly regarded defensive infielders in the game. His range, quick hands, and exceptional turning of double plays have made him a staple of Cleveland’s defense. Like Hoerner, Gimenez’s ability to play both second base and shortstop would give the Yankees flexibility, particularly if they decide to move Torres around or explore trade options for Kiner-Falefa.
Gimenez is also a solid hitter, and his ability to get on base would help balance the Yankees’ lineup. His youth and potential for growth make him an exciting target for a Yankees team that is looking to solidify its defense for years to come.
#### **4. Amed Rosario (SS, Cleveland Guardians)**
Amed Rosario is another name to consider, especially if the Yankees are looking for a true shortstop to anchor their infield. While Rosario is not a Gold Glove winner, he is a very solid defender with the ability to make all the necessary plays at shortstop. His baseball IQ is frequently praised, and his improvements at the plate in recent seasons suggest that he could be a strong addition to the Yankees’ lineup.
Although Rosario doesn’t offer the elite defense of some other potential options, his consistency and high IQ make him a valuable asset in the right situation. The Yankees could look to him as a stabilizing presence at shortstop while waiting for younger players to develop in the future.
### **How This Move Helps the Yankees**
Adding a “high baseball IQ” Gold Glove caliber player to the infield would provide the Yankees with immediate defensive upgrades at one or more key spots. Whether it’s upgrading at third base with Matt Chapman or adding another versatile player like Nico Hoerner, the Yankees would significantly improve their defensive stability. In turn, this would relieve pressure on their pitching staff, allowing them to focus on executing without worrying about defensive lapses behind them.
This move would also bring a level of professionalism and experience to the infield that could set the tone for the rest of the team. A player with a strong baseball IQ has the ability to impact the game in ways that statistics can’t always quantify, from reading the situation correctly to making clutch defensive plays when the team needs them most.
For the Yankees, this type of acquisition could prove to be the difference between a strong regular season and a World Series championship run, making it a critical move to round out their infield and complete their championship-caliber roster.
