A .305 hitter should put the Yankees on the phone to Miami

Alexander Wilson of Empire Sports Media argues that the New York Yankees should explore a trade for Miami Marlins infielder Otto Lopez. Following a season in which the Yankees hit .235 and struck out 24.7 percent of the time, Wilson suggests Lopez's high-contact profile could address key lineup deficiencies. The Marlins are reportedly open to listening to offers for Lopez if the return is substantial.

Lopez batted .305 with 11 home runs and 34 stolen bases across 687 plate appearances in 2026 while maintaining a 13.0 percent strikeout rate. Under club control through 2029, Lopez could fit at either shortstop or second base, though Wilson cautions against overpaying given Lopez's historically low walk rate.