The New York Yankees may be on the verge of a significant trade that could reshape their roster for the upcoming seasons. MLB insider Jim Bowden has reported that the Yankees are exploring a blockbuster deal with the Minnesota Twins that would send third baseman Royce Lewis to the Bronx. The proposed trade would see the Yankees parting ways with three prospects: Oswald Peraza, Henry Leon, and Cam Schlittler.
Royce Lewis, a former number one overall draft pick in 2017, has shown immense potential on the field. Despite struggling with injuries throughout his career, his talent is undeniable. In just 549 MLB at-bats, he has hit 33 home runs and recorded a career batting average of .268, with an impressive .825 OPS. In 2023, he slashed .309/.372/.548 over 58 games, showcasing All-Star-level production when healthy.
If the deal goes through, Lewis would not only fill the Yankees’ long-standing need at third base but also serve as a leadoff hitter, allowing Aaron Judge to return to his natural third spot in the batting order. His combination of speed, contact, and power could reignite a Yankees lineup that has struggled to find consistent production.
However, the move comes with risks. The Yankees would be giving up promising prospects, with Peraza being the highest-profile name in the deal. While he has shown flashes of potential, his path to a full-time role in the Yankees’ infield appears uncertain. The other two prospects, Leon and Schlittler, are also considered raw and unproven.
The crux of the trade hinges on Lewis’s ability to stay healthy. He has faced multiple injuries throughout his career, raising questions about his durability. However, the Yankees have recently revamped their training and medical staff, which could bode well for Lewis’s future in New York.
With the Yankees’ championship window open, the front office faces pressure to make moves that will enhance the team’s chances of success. If they believe in Lewis’s upside, this trade could be a pivotal step toward building a competitive roster for years to come. Fans are left to ponder whether this gamble is worth it, as the Yankees aim for a return to glory.
