The New York Yankees are looking for an upgrade at catcher.
That’s no secret.
But they aren’t the only AL East club seeking a new backstop.
The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal wrote Thursday that three teams from the division all have their eyes on an All-Star from the NL West.
However, it’s unclear if the Yankees or the two teams have made an offer for the slugger’s services.
Three AL East teams showing interest in All-Star catcher
“Three AL East clubs — the Tampa Bay Rays, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees — are among the teams expressing varying interest in [Hunter] Goodman, according to people briefed on the Rockies’ conversations but granted anonymity to speak freely,” Rosenthal wrote.
Goodman is having a tremendous year at the plate for the Colorado Rockies. In 100 games, he’s hitting .254/.326/.545 with 31 home runs and an .872 OPS.
The downsides of Goodman’s game? He strikes out a ton (33.3%), and there are concerns about his defense behind the plate, specifically pitch framing.
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The Yankees, of course, are very particular about defense at the catcher position. That’s why Austin Wells, despite sporting a .525 OPS, still receives playing time.
Wells also operates effectively with the pitching staff. Perhaps Goodman’s defense could improve under Yankees catching coordinator Tanner Swanson.
But the Rockies will expect a haul in return for Goodman, which could stop the Yankees in their tracks. Would the Red Sox or Rays be willing to make that kind of offer? Time will tell.