Yankees Fan-Favorite Reportedly Could Be Let Go This Offseason
The New York Yankees could end up losing a lot of players this offseason.
After winning just 82 games in 2023 despite World Series expectations, this isn't too surprising. New York will be busy this offseason looking to retool its roster and so changes are expected. Plus, the Yankees have some very intriguing young players who should be in the mix for more playing time.
Because of all of this, there are sure to be some players non-tendered this offseason. One player who reportedly could find himself without a job with New York is fan-favorite catcher Kyle Higashioka, according to SNY's Phillip Martinez.
"Higashioka has been a fixture as a Yankees catcher, whether as a starter or backup, for seven seasons," Martinez said. "But with the emergence of Austin Wells, the 33-year-old may be out of a job.
"Higgy did show some pop, hitting 10 bombs -- tying a career-high -- in 92 games while slashing .236/.274/.413. But if Wells continues to impress with his power and Trevino returns from injury to be Gerrit Cole’s personal catcher, the Yankees could move on from Higashioka."
Higashioka was drafted by the Yankees in the seventh round of the 2008 Major League Baseball June Amateur Draft. After working his way up through the farm system, the 33-year-old eventually made his big league debut with New York in 2017. He has remained with the club in various roles since then but with youngster Austin Wells up with the club and All-Star Jose Trevino in the mix, it doesn't appear that there will be a role for Higashioka. Plus, the Yankees have been mentioned as a club that could pursue more catching depth through trade.
All in all, it sounds like Higashioka has played his last game in pinstripes.
