MLB trade rumors: New York Yankees potentially interested in $29 million ex Tampa Bay Rays star to fight injuries and improve rotation

The New York Yankees are heading into the 2026 MLB season with a major setback, as rising star Anthony Volpe is expected to miss the start of the campaign following shoulder surgery.

After an inconsistent 2025 season that left fans frustrated, the Yankees now face another challenge at a position that was already a concern last year - shortstop.

With Volpe sidelined for several months, the team’s front office is once again under pressure to find a dependable replacement capable of stabilizing the infield.That search has quickly turned toward Ha-Seong Kim, the $16 million Gold Glove winner who recently became a free agent.

Known for his defensive excellence and versatility, Kim’s name has surfaced as a prime target for the Yankees as they look to fill the temporary void left by Volpe. His ability to play multiple infield roles and contribute consistently on both sides of the ball makes him a strong candidate to help New York stay competitive until their young star returns.

Anthony Volpe’s Injury Timeline Raises Concerns

According to ESPN’s Jorge Castillo, “Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Thursday that Volpe won’t swing a bat for at least four months and will be unable to dive on his surgically repaired left shoulder for six months. Cashman added that the Yankees hope Volpe will be ready ‘sometime in April; maybe, worst-case scenario, May.’ The Yankees open the 2026 season in San Francisco against the Giants on March 25.” (H/t: Sporting News)

This update means the Yankees will begin the year without their young shortstop, prompting the front office to look for a short-term fix or insurance option who can handle the defensive demands of the position.

Ha-Seong Kim Emerges as a Top Target

Ha-Seong Kim, who recently opted out of his $16 million player option, has become one of the most intriguing names on the market. Known for his defensive excellence and versatility, Kim could be a natural fit for New York as they look to solidify their infield.As Yanks Go Yard’s Adam Weinrib explained, “If they sign Kim this offseason, they’ll be able to plug both Caballero and Kim into multiple roles as the week unfurls.

They’ll have more opportunities to get creative. And, yes, they’ll have a Gold Glover who can play shortstop on days when Caballero slots in elsewhere, plus a right-handed platoon solution for Ryan McMahon.”Kim’s defensive reliability and experience make him a valuable asset for any contender, and the Yankees could benefit from his ability to cover multiple infield positions while offering consistent production.

Ha-Seong Kim’s Contract and Career Overview

Former Team Success San Diego Padres – peak performance years

Braves insider Mark Bowman added, “Kim became a free agent on Monday when he opted out of his $16 million option for the 2026 season. For the Braves, this simply erases the exclusive negotiating rights they held since they had claimed the former Gold Glove Award winner off waivers from the Rays on Sept. 1.”

Yankees vs. Braves: Market Competition Expected

While the Yankees seem to be a natural landing spot given their immediate need, Kim’s market is expected to be competitive.

The Braves could still attempt to re-sign him, especially if they can guarantee an everyday starting role.For the Yankees, the challenge lies in balancing roster flexibility with long-term plans for Volpe’s return. If Kim is offered a primary role elsewhere, New York may have to outbid or out-promise competitors to secure his services.

Why Ha-Seong Kim Makes Sense for the Yankees

• Gold Glove-caliber defense at shortstop • Ability to play multiple infield positions • Right-handed bat complements current lineup balance • Provides short-term stability while Volpe recovers • Allows Aaron Boone tactical flexibility during the seasonAlso read: MLB trade rumors: Baltimore Orioles predicted to sign $53 million Chicago Cubs All-Star to bolster squad and improve title oddsHa-Seong Kim’s free agency adds intrigue to an already critical offseason for the Yankees. With Anthony Volpe sidelined until at least April, signing a proven defender like Kim could bridge the gap while enhancing their infield depth. However, with other suitors like the Braves in the mix, the Yankees will need to act swiftly if they hope to land the $16 million Gold Glover and avoid another year of uncertainty at shortstop.