Yankees Could Have Sneaky Good Trade Target on Their Radar

The New York Yankees definitely need to make some changes this offseason, but the problem is that the free-agent market is going to be very thin.

As a result, the Yankees may have turn to trades in order to bolster their roster, and while they don't yet know who will be available, that doesn't mean they can't already begin planning on making some calls.

In that case, they may want to contact a familiar trade partner: the Miami Marlins.

The Yankees have swung numerous trades with the Marlins over the years, most recently acquiring Ryan Weathers from Miami last winter.

This time around, New York should call up the Fish to inquire about second baseman Xavier Edwards.

The Yankees need to find an answer at second with Jazz Chisholm (who was, ironically enough, acquired from the Marlins) departing, and while Anthony Volpe could represent an internal solution, Edwards would comprise a massive upgrade.

New York apparently really likes Edwards, which should not come as much of a surprise. While he lacks power, he batted .280 with a .360 OBP in 2026, managing an 11.4 percent walk rate with only a 13.9 percent strikeout rate.

Additionally, Edwards stole 21 bases in 26 attempts, and while he had a slightly down year defensively this season, he posted 12 defensive runs saved and nine outs above average the campaign prior.

The 27-year-old is also a switch hitter who is effective from both sides of the plate.

Of course, the Marlins are under no pressure to move Edwards this offseason because he is under club control through 2029. Miami received inquiries on Edwards at the MLB trade deadline, but it rebuffed them.

Considering the Marlins are clearly on the cusp of being a playoff team, they may choose to head into next season with Edwards on their roster and then re-evaluate at the deadline.

But that doesn't mean the Yankees still shouldn't ask.

New York absolutely has some trade chips in it system, ranging from Carlos Lagrange to Dax Kilby. Last year, the Marlins plucked four prospects from the Yankees' organization in the Weathers deal, with outfielder Dillon Lewis being the top youngster moved.

Miami would surely ask for a more substantial package (in quality, not necessarily in quantity) in exchange for Edwards, and that could make New York balk.

That being said, Edwards would be an ideal leadoff hitter in the Yankees' lineup given his plate discipline and his speed, and it should also be noted he batted .321 with runners in scoring position in 2026. He is also a lifetime .328 hitter in those situations.