New York Yankees: 5 Players That Could Be Traded At Deadline
Jul 17, 2015; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees second baseman Rob Refsnyder (64) dives for a single hit by Seattle Mariners center fielder Austin Jackson (not pictured) during the second inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Of all the players on this list, Refsnyder is the only one with a taste of the major leagues thus far. It was a short stint though, as he played with the big league club for only four games, two against the Red Sox and two against the Seattle Mariners. He struggled a bit, getting a hit in only one of the four games, but he made it count, going 2-4 with his first career home run to defeat the rival Red Sox.
While his first stint with at the major league level wasn’t as awe inspiring as some of the other prospects who have been called up this season, Refsynder does look to have a bright future at the plate. He is the best overall hitter in the Yankees system, which he showcased last season with a .318 batting average and 38 doubles. He has what looks to be solid pop for a middle infielder, and could top out around 15 home runs a season.
But, his ability to handle the bat is what will help make him a solid major leaguer. His approach at the plate, including his knowledge of the strike zone and ability to recognize pitches, helps him drive the ball to all fields. It is something that should translate no matter the level he is playing at, as he knows what he is capable of at the plate.
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The one thing that is holding him back though is his defense. He is making the transition from the corner outfield to second base, a move that was necessitated by his lack of power profile at the position. The transition has been a work in progress, as he is improving but there is still much work to be done. Right now he is a below average fielder at the position with a 4.25 range factor in the minor leagues, below the 4.77 at the major league level.
His footwork still needs help, which makes his ability to play defense the deciding factor in how highly sought after of a player he is. His bat profiles as an above average one for second base, but if his glove cannot come along is the trade off worthwhile? He could move back to the corner outfield, but that would lower his value.
Right now it would be hard to imagine the Yankees moving Refsnyder, as he could be their second baseman of the future. But, at the same time, it is hard to believe they are still using Stephen Drew as their main second baseman. If that is the case, and the Yankees do not believe he is capable of outproducing Drew at this stage, they could try and move him to upgrade at other spots on the roster.
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