The start of spring training is still a few weeks away, but the free agent market has yet to heat up.
One of the top free agents still available is Mike Moustakas. The 29-year-old arguably had his best season in 2017, as he set career-highs in homers (38) and RBIs (85).
Moustakas is without-a-doubt looking for a long-term deal this offseason. Although the Yankees probably won’t break the bank to sign him, where he lands could have an impact on the Bronx Bombers.
#Brewers continue to be “in” on RHP Jake Arrieta & also 3B Michael Moustakas with the idea that if they signed Moustakas they could trade Travis Shaw to NYY, ATL or NYM according to a club source.
— Jim Bowden🌟🎤 (@JimBowdenGM) January 15, 2018
The Milwaukee Brewers have been linked as one of the potential suitors for Moustakas. If he decides to sign in Milwaukee, the Brewers would have a bit of a logjam at third base.
This is where the Yankees could come into play.
According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, Travis Shaw could become available if Moustakas does in fact sign in Milwaukee. Bowden lists the Yankees, along with the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets, as possible trade partners for the 27-year-old third basemen.
Shaw has spent three seasons in the big leagues, and has posted a slash line of .260/.328/.473 in 354 career games. After two seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Shaw was traded to the Brewers, and was given an opportunity to be the club’s everyday third basemen.
The move paid off nicely for the Brewers, as Shaw had an outstanding 2017 season. He slugged 31 homers and drove in 101 runs over 144 games, and was a consistent presence in the team’s everyday lineup.
If the Yankees are concerned about starting the season with two rookies in their infield, a trade to acquire Shaw could make a lot of sense. The 27-year-old still has club control, and is not eligible to hit the free agent market until 2022.
Shaw could provide stability at third base, and allow more time for some of the team’s top prospects to mature. He would also be a very nice fit in Yankee Stadium, which is definitely hitter-friendly, especially for left-handed bats.
This rumor definitely rides on the future of Mike Moustakas. Depending on where he decides to sign, it could impact what the Yankees next possible move might be this offseason.
