Earlier this week it came out that the Texas Rangers have interest in trading for Miguel Andjuar. Following Gio Urshela’s breakout performance in 2019, Andjuar is no longer a lock to be the Yankees 3rd Baseman in 2020, so it only makes sense that the Yankees should entertain trade offers for him. Initially I expected that if Andjuar were to be traded, it would be as part of a larger package in order for the Yankees to obtain a top of the rotation starter. With the Rangers appearing to have proactively initiated trade talks for Andjuar, it raises the question of what the Yankees could possibly get in return?
Andjuar surprised everyone with his performance in 2018, batting .297 with 27 HR’s and 92 RBI’s. Unfortunately he only appeared in 12 games during 2019 before having to undergo season ending surgery on his right shoulder in May. Shoulder injuries are a serious deal, especially when it’s on a players throwing/batting arm as was Miggy’s case, so his trade value is relatively low right now. However, the Rangers have been somewhat in desperation mode since the end of 2018 trying to fill the void at 3B left by Adrian Beltre, so trading for a young, MLB ready player with 4yrs of control is very attractive to them. A reasonable asking price in return for Andjuar would be 2 players: 1 prospect and 1 who could provide value at the big league level in 2020. Working within these parameters, I like the following players:
Emmanuel Clase
The 21yr old right handed pitcher made his major league debut last August, appearing in 21 games out of the bullpen. He pitched 23.1 innings, posting a 2.31 ERA and a respectable 3.5 SO to Walk ratio. The Rangers have depth in their relievers at both the major league level and on the farm, making Clase expendable and an attractive trade candidate.
Davis Wendzel
The Rangers selected Davis Wendzel out of Baylor in the first round of this years June Amateur Draft and is currently ranked as the #9 prospect in the system. Only 21yrs old, Wendzel is still a long ways away from being MLB ready, however is already well regarded by most scouts as a solid 3B who has power at the plate. Wendzel may ultimately have a tough time making it to the majors as a Texas Ranger, as he currently sits behind fellow 3rd basemen and #1 prospect Josh Jung, who’s expected to be called up in 2021. If the Rangers are looking to trade for a 3B, whether it be Andjuar or someone else, Wendzel’s days in Texas might be coming to an end.
161st and Rivera 