Yankees Express Interest in Signing Thairo Estrada

The New York Yankees are reportedly interested in signing infielder Thairo Estrada, according to a report by MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. This makes the Yankees the second team known to be pursuing Estrada, with the Colorado Rockies also showing interest earlier this week.


Estrada, who was originally signed by the Yankees as an international free agent in 2012, played 61 games for New York during the 2019-2020 seasons. However, it was not until his trade to the San Francisco Giants in April 2021 that he began to establish himself as a productive Major Leaguer, posting a .266/.320/.416 slash line over 1,203 plate appearances from 2021 to 2023.


Unfortunately, Estrada's performance took a downturn in 2024. Plagued by wrist problems, he struggled to a .217/.247/.343 batting line in 381 plate appearances, leading to his removal from the Giants' 40-man roster in late August. His walk rate of just 2.6% was the second-lowest in the Majors among players with at least 350 plate appearances, highlighting his struggles to get on base.


Given his recent form, Estrada is not expected to be a starting candidate for the Yankees. However, his versatility makes him an intriguing option for a part-time or bench role. Primarily a second baseman, Estrada has also spent time at shortstop, third base, and in the outfield. His right-handed bat could complement left-handed hitter Jazz Chisholm Jr., who is anticipated to start at either second or third base for the Yankees.