Yankees Acquire Austin Slater in Trade

The Yankees acquired outfielder Austin Slater in a trade with the White Sox.

Yankees Acquire Austin Slater from White Sox

The New York Yankees announced a trade to bolster their outfield depth by acquiring Austin Slater from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for minor league right-hander Gage Ziehl. Slater, who is 32, has showcased his strengths against left-handed pitchers throughout his nine-year major league career. With a batting line of .236/.299/.423 this season, he has excelled against lefties, hitting .261/.338/.552. Currently on a one-year contract worth $1.75 million, Slater can earn additional incentives based on his performance. While he may not become an everyday player, his addition will complement Jasson Dominguez, especially during Aaron Judge's absence due to injury. Ziehl has been a promising prospect for the Yankees, ranked 18th among the club's prospects, with a solid showing in the minor leagues.

This trade reflects the Yankees' strategic focus on enhancing their lineup amidst injuries, particularly during a crucial time in the season. Slater's ability to handle left-handed pitching makes him an ideal fit as the Yankees navigate potential mismatches in upcoming games. The deal also underscores the Yankees’ commitment to maximizing their current roster while the injury-prone Judge recovers. By trading a promising but unproven prospect in Ziehl, who has yet to make a significant impact at higher levels, the Yankees seem willing to prioritize immediate needs over future potential. This trade could signal a shift in their approach as they aim to stay competitive in their division.

Highlights

The ongoing performance of Slater could influence the Yankees' postseason ambitions.