Evaluating the Yankees Options at DH If They Trade Brian McCann

Kendrys Morales, Mike Napoli, Brandon Moss, Luis Valbuena, etc.

While the 2016-2017 free agent class is lacking elite superstars, there are plenty of relievers and quality veteran bats available, both of which would be useful for the Yankees.

More from Yankees News

• Never forget Miguel Andújar wrecked Yankees’ Nolan Arenado trade
• Diamondbacks outfielder’s comment on Carlos Rodón’s IG raises eyebrows
• Aaron Judge Time interview scared Yankees as much as it scared you
• Why weren’t Yankees in on Kodai Senga now that we know the price?
• Baseball Reference proves Yankees’ Aaron Judge lives rent free in Boston

The team has already reportedly checked in with Kendrys Morales, who saw his numbers dip a bit in his second year with Kansas City, but still hit a respectable .263/.327/.468 with 30 homers. He’s a switch-hitter and shouldn’t require more than a two year deal (MLBTR says two and $26 million). It wouldn’t be the most exciting addition in the world, but Morales could definitely hold down a spot in the middle of the order.

Napoli seems like he might get overpaid after a solid season with the Indians. I’m not sure he can replicate that production in 2017. Whatever good will Moss earned with his hot start was completely obliterated by his awful second half slump. He hit .191/.248/.392 in his final 214 plate appearances this year. Pass.

Luis Valbuena and Steve Pearce have the bats to warrant an everyday DH job, but come with the added benefit of bringing a ton of positional flexibility. Valbuena played first, second, and third for the Astros this year, and has even played shortstop and the outfield in the past. Pearce played first, second, third, and the outfield corners in 2016.

Next: Five Best Free Agent Fits for the Yankees

Neither Valbuena or Pearce would require more than a two year deal in the $10-15 million range. They’d provide insurance for guys like Greg Bird, Aaron Judge, and even Chase Headley, whose long time back issue began to flare up down the stretch this year.