The New York Yankees started the season planning to deploy DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera at third base. Both players struggled last season, and LeMahieu’s recent injury proves the Yankees cannot rely on him. The Yankees will have an opportunity to add an upgrade at the trade deadline. FOX Sports’ Rowan Kavner predicted the Yankees would swing a blockbuster trade with the St. Louis Cardinals to acquire eight-time All-Star Nolan Arenado.

“With the Yankees and (Baltimore) Orioles both within striking distance of the division lead at the break, they make dueling moves hoping to separate,” predicted Kavner. “Arenado turns back the clock in a resurgent first half, and the Yankees hope he can fix their offensive woes.” The Yankees and Arenado were linked in rumors all offseason, but Arenado was not traded. He signed an eight-year, $260 million extension with the Colorado Rockies in 2019 before he was eventually traded to the Cardinals.

He is signed through 2027 and would not be a cheap acquisition. However, he would be a clear upgrade offensively to both Cabrera and LeMahieu. Not to mention, he brings an elite glove, having won 10 Gold Gloves and six Platinum Gloves. Last season, he slashed .272/.325/.394 and hit 16 home runs in what was considered a down season. In the last four seasons, he has a .797 OPS and 106 home runs.

The Yankees lost a big piece of their offense when Juan Soto signed with the New York Mets. They added Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt to help fill the void. Reuniting Arenado with Goldschmidt could be the last piece the Yankees need to make another deep run.