The New York Yankees announced that they have acquired Kendrys Morales in a trade with the Oakland Athletics. In exchange for Morales, Oakland will receive a player to be named later or cash considerations.
The Yankees have acquired 1B/DH Kendrys Morales and cash considerations from Oakland in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
To make room on the 40-man roster, RHP Jonathan Loaisiga has been transferred to the 60-day IL.
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) May 15, 2019
Over his 13-year big league career, Morales has hit 212 home runs and has 735 career RBIs.The switch-hitting first baseman/designated hitter finished in the Top-5 of the AL MVP voting in 2009, and took home the Silver Slugger Award in 2015.
Morales was recently designated for assignment by the Athletics. In 34 games this season, the 35-year-old has struggled offensively, posting a slash line of .204/.310/.259. His power numbers have also been down, as he has just one home run over his 108 plate appearances.
Despite his early season struggles, Morales still could be a viable power hitting threat in the Yankees lineup. Morales has hit 20+ home runs in each of the last four seasons, and could benefit from playing his home games at Yankee Stadium.
With the Yankees injury struggles, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the organization is taking a chance on Morales. If he could get back on track, the addition of Morales could definitely benefit the Yankees lineup, and will give manager Aaron Boone additional options to work with.
To create space on the 40-man roster for Morales, the Yankees announced that they have transferred Jonathan Loaisiga to the 60-day Injured List.
