In a move signaling a shift behind the plate, the New York Yankees traded veteran catcher Jose Trevino to the Cincinnati Reds on Friday. In return, the Yankees acquired right-handed reliever Fernando Cruz and catcher Alex Jackson. This trade marks a significant roster change for both teams as they prepare for the 2024 season.
A Stellar Start, Followed by Setbacks
Trevino, 32, joined the Yankees in 2022 following a trade with the Texas Rangers and immediately made his mark. That season, he was named an All-Star, earned a Gold Glove and American League Platinum Glove, and led all catchers with 21 defensive runs saved. He also contributed offensively, hitting .248 with 11 home runs and a .671 OPS.
However, injuries began to take their toll. In 2023, Trevino was limited to just 55 games. Despite reclaiming the starting catcher role in 2024, a quadriceps injury in July opened the door for Austin Wells, a promising rookie who solidified his position as the Yankees’ primary backstop.
Wells, 25, capitalized on the opportunity, finishing the season with a .229 batting average, 13 home runs, and a .718 OPS over 115 games. His performance earned him a third-place finish in the AL Rookie of the Year voting, effectively signaling the end of Trevino’s tenure as the Yankees’ starter.
Yankees Strengthen Bullpen, Look to the Future
In exchange for Trevino, the Yankees acquired Fernando Cruz, a seasoned reliever who brings depth to their bullpen. The 34-year-old made his MLB debut in 2022 and has since posted a 4.52 ERA across 141 games. Last season, Cruz tallied 109 strikeouts over 69 appearances while recording a 4.86 ERA. Under team control until 2026, he joins a Yankees bullpen already bolstered by the recent acquisition of closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Yankees also received catcher Alex Jackson, a 28-year-old with major league experience but limited offensive production. Across five seasons with teams including the Rays, Brewers, Marlins, and Braves, Jackson has a career .132 batting average and a .456 OPS. Though he’s likely to start the season in the minors, Jackson provides depth at a position where the Yankees will rely heavily on Wells moving forward.
Reds’ Perspective
For Cincinnati, the acquisition of Trevino adds defensive expertise and veteran leadership behind the plate. With Trevino under contract for one more year before free agency, the Reds gain a reliable option to mentor their young pitching staff while contributing offensively.
A New Era in the Bronx
This trade underscores the Yankees’ commitment to their youth movement while addressing bullpen needs. Wells will enter spring training as the team’s everyday catcher, representing a changing of the guard behind the plate. For Trevino, the move to Cincinnati offers a chance to rejuvenate his career and bring his elite defensive skills to a new team.
As the offseason continues, both teams hope these changes will position them for success in 2024. For the Yankees, it’s a clear nod to the future, while for the Reds, it’s a push to remain competitive in the NL Central.
