Yankees Trade for Max Schuemann: A Glove-First Utility Player from the Athletics

By Steve Adams and Charlie Wright | February 9, 2026 at 1:51 p.m. CDT

The New York Yankees have acquired Max Schuemann, an infielder/outfielder, from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for minor league right-hander Luis Burgos, according to announcements from both teams. This trade comes after Schuemann was designated for assignment last week by the Athletics, following the team’s acquisition of Andy Ibáñez. To make room for Schuemann on the Yankees’ roster, the team has designated outfielder Yanquiel Fernandez for assignment.

Schuemann, 28 years old, will now join the Yankees’ roster as a versatile defensive option. During his time with the Athletics, Schuemann was primarily utilized at shortstop, but he also logged time at second base, third base, and all three outfield spots. His defensive versatility and speed have made him a valuable contributor despite struggling offensively over the past two seasons. In 672 career plate appearances across multiple seasons with Oakland, Schuemann has posted a 78 wRC+—a below-average offensive number. However, he has shown value on the base paths, recording 21 steals in 23 attempts over his career. Schuemann’s ability to steal bases was also evident in the minors, where he swiped 52 bags across three levels in 2021.

One of Schuemann’s most appealing attributes is his defense. Last season, he ranked in the 95th percentile in Outs Above Average (OAA), highlighting his elite defensive ability. His ability to play multiple positions will add significant depth to the Yankees’ roster, where injury concerns have made depth at various positions a priority.

Schuemann’s Role with the Yankees

For the Yankees, Schuemann will provide essential infield depth, particularly with second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. having dealt with injuries and shortstop Anthony Volpe currently recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. Volpe’s recovery timeline suggests he might not be ready for Opening Day, making Schuemann’s acquisition a timely one for New York. As a glove-first option, Schuemann can step into various roles across the infield and outfield, providing a safety net for the Yankees as they navigate potential injuries in the early part of the season.

While Schuemann’s offensive numbers may not stand out, his ability to play multiple positions and his speed on the base paths make him a valuable addition to New York’s roster, especially as they look to build depth for a long season. He will likely compete for a utility role, providing flexibility for manager Aaron Boone.

Athletics Acquire Luis Burgos: A 20-Year-Old Right-Hander

In return, the Oakland Athletics have received Luis Burgos, a 20-year-old right-handed pitcher who has spent the entirety of his professional career in the Dominican Summer League (DSL). Signed by the Yankees as an international free agent in 2024, Burgos has shown promise with a 3.39 ERA over 79.2 innings in the DSL, though his performance has been somewhat uneven. He has struck out 8.0 batters per nine innings but has struggled with control, walking 4.7 batters per nine innings.

Burgos’s solid run prevention results have made him an intriguing prospect, though his strikeout and walk numbers suggest there is still significant room for improvement. Given his lack of professional experience, Burgos is expected to begin his career with the Athletics at the lower levels of their minor league system, where he can continue to develop and refine his skills.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Both Teams

For the Yankees, the addition of Max Schuemann is a low-risk, high-reward move that gives them defensive versatility and depth for the upcoming season. His ability to play multiple positions, along with his speed, will help the Yankees weather potential injuries in the early part of the season, particularly as they deal with Anthony Volpe’s recovery and concerns with Jazz Chisholm Jr.. While Schuemann’s offense has been underwhelming, his defensive prowess and base-stealing ability should help bolster New York’s overall roster.

For the Athletics, acquiring Luis Burgos adds another arm to their already deep pool of young pitching prospects. Although Burgos’s control issues will need to be addressed, his solid ERA at the DSL level shows potential for future development. The Athletics will likely give Burgos time to develop further in the minors as they continue to focus on building a long-term, sustainable roster.

In summary, both teams addressed specific needs through this trade, and while Schuemann provides the Yankees with much-needed versatility, Burgos gives the Athletics a young pitching prospect to continue developing.