Suárez Content in Arizona Amid Trade Rumors

ATLANTA – Eugenio Suárez expressed that he feels “happy” in Arizona and is committed to supporting the teams in the All-Star Break battle.

Yet, even with the trade talks swirling around him—especially with the Yankees showing interest—he finds the rumors somewhat flattering.

“The Yankees are the Yankees. I think they’re always aiming for a win,” Suárez mentioned during a media session on Monday. “They’ve been pushing for the World Series since last year, but they still have that hunger.”

“If I were to go there, like I mentioned, I’d do my best to help them clinch that title.”

However, it’s uncertain whether the Yankees can bolster their chances this season.

Suárez certainly fits the mold for teams in need of a right-handed third baseman who can bring stability and also maintain the position until top prospect George Lombard Jr. is ready.

The 33-year-old, a two-time All-Star, is having a solid season, hitting 31 home runs in the first half, achieving an .889 OPS, and leading the National League with 78 RBIs.

His swing is powerful—he’s tied for 19th in the league with 105 strikeouts—but that hasn’t deterred the Yankees in the past.

“I might not hit home runs all the time,” Suárez admitted with a grin. “But the power is there.”

His hitting prowess extends to both right and left-handed pitchers, which could particularly benefit the Yankees’ left-heavy lineup, aside from Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton.

Throughout his 12-year career, Suárez has mostly played third base, though he currently ranks 33rd out of 39 qualifiers in that role this season.

There’s no pressing need for Jazz Chisholm Jr. to move back to third base.

For the Yankees, who already have several long-term contracts and might not want to take on more aging players, acquiring Suárez could make sense as a temporary solution.

This season, he is earning $15 million before entering free agency.

Besides the Yankees, teams like the Diamondbacks, Cubs, and Tigers might also consider him.

The Diamondbacks recently found themselves in the postseason as a wild card in 2023, competing for the NL Pennant. With the trade deadline looming on July 31, they’re facing difficult decisions. They’ve dealt with injuries this first half, but the team still possesses significant talent.

If Arizona decides to sell, the Yankees will likely face competition from other clubs interested in acquiring him.

No team has experienced worse production (.531 OPS) at third base than the Cubs, who have been testing rookie Matt Shaw in that position.

A team looking to win, like the one with Kyle Tucker, will be ruing missed opportunities.

Detroit is also keeping an eye on Suárez, as he represents a potential upgrade for a team currently leading in MLB.

Suárez acknowledges the interest from top teams.

“When I see my name connected with various teams, it’s something to take pride in,” he noted. “Let’s see how things unfold in the next few weeks.”

There are also other options for the Yankees’ urgent pursuit.

For example, Ryan McMahon of the Rockies has a .683 OPS and his contract could be appealing, potentially lightening the financial load over the next two years.

Nolan Arenado hasn’t bounced back to form this season.

Perhaps the Yankees could pry Kebryan Hayes away from the Pirates, though he’s only posting a .576 OPS.

Other possible alternatives include Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Luis Rengifo.

As for Suárez, he’s trying to stay composed as the deadline approaches.

“It’s all beyond my control,” he remarked. “I always say that I’m happy where I am, but I also recognize the business side of the game.”