The New York Yankees have finalized a trade with the Texas Rangers to add veteran Rougned Odor for a pair of prospects. With an attempt to add depth to their infield, the 27 year old second basemen is looking to start a new chapter in New York. The longtime member of the Texas Rangers, joins the Yankees just 4 games into the season with the team holding a current record of 2-2.
The addition of Odor allows the Yankees to bolster their infield depth. The veteran second basemen brings a solid glove to a Yankees infield that experiences the occasional defensive woah when it comes to shortstop Gleyber Torres. Odor also brings the Yankees an average bat, in his 7 years with the Rangers Odor was able to hit 146 HRs and drive in 458 RBIs. Although he has hit very below average, the lefty hitter may find success with the short porch in right field.
On the money side, it is expected for the Rangers to absorb almost all of the current $27 million owed to Odor. The remaining payout for Odor comes from the 6 year, $49 million contract signed in 2017 with the Rangers. The complete buyout of his current contract leaves the Yankees with a player that is very low risk financially. The obvious rush to move Odor from Texas finds the Yankees with a new power hitter that costs them almost nothing.
Odor joins a Yankees bench that contains only one infielder. Along side infielder Tyler Wade, Odor will join outfielders Brett Gardner and Mike Tauchman as key pieces to come off the bench. In a very competitive AL East the Yankees have made it clear that they believe depth is a major key to winning. The addition of Odor may turn out to be very beneficial for the Yankees, but if that is not the case then the Yankees must feel good knowing he does not bring a large financial hit. It will be interesting to see where Odor is used within the infield and if he can continue to hit for power in a very power heavy Yankees lineup.
