Source: Yankees close to deal with Todd Frazier
The Yankees have been one of the busiest clubs this offseason, making their biggest splash by acquiring Giancarlo Stanton. In that deal, the Yanks shipped starting second baseman Starlin Castro off to Miami, and just a couple days later, dumped Chase Headley and his remaining $13 million on the San Diego Padres. These moves have obviously opened up spots in the infield at second and third base. As it stands, it appears top prospect Gleyber Torres will be manning one of these positions with Ronald Torreyes, Tyler Wade, and possibly even Miguel Andujar seeing time in some sort of rotation. The Yankees presumably would prefer Torres at second base as opposed to third, leaving them with an opening at the hot corner for 2018. The common rumor has been the mutual interest in bringing Todd Frazier back for a short term solution until the Bombers can make their inevitable run at Manny Machado. It appears the rumors may be true, as the Yankees may be getting closer to bringing the thumbs-down originating, Toms River native back to the Bronx.
#Yankees and Todd Frazier are inching towards a deal for next season. @therealjleyritz is reporting it could be a one-year pact plus a player option. I think it makes all the sense in the world to have Frazier back in pinstripes.
— Dan Federico (@RealDanFederico) December 18, 2017
While Leyritz may not be an irrefutable verified source, it is certainly worth noting that he was the first to report the closed Stanton deal. Frazier was undoubtedly an essential cog in the Yankees' postseason run, and at the right price could provide even more power in an unrelenting lineup in addition to his reliable/above average glove at third base. Given the somewhat vague nature of Leyritz' tweet regarding Frazier, we spoke with him in an attempt to gain some clarity. When speaking with Jim tonight he added: "From what I hear, his [Frazier] agent wants two years, but would accept a one year deal with an option which could provide Frazier with an out in case the Yankees go after Machado. He [Frazier] likes being near his home and his family if he can." All of these factors lead him to believe it is the Yankees that Todd is closest with in negotiations. If these rumors gain more traction we will continue to report all developments on Frazier, his contract, and what it may mean for the prospects. Follow me on Twitter, @JaredSaul