The New York Yankees are retaining a familiar infield option, agreeing to a one year deal with Amed Rosario, according to YES Network’s Jack Curry.
The contract is valued at $2.5 million, with an additional $250,000 available through performance incentives, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post and ESPN’s Jorge Castillo.
Rosario, 30, is expected to reprise his role as the right-handed complement to Ryan McMahon in a platoon at third base. His offensive value has long come from his success against left handed pitching, and that trend continued last season. In 122 plate appearances versus southpaws, Rosario hit .302 with a .328 on base percentage and a .491 slugging percentage, adding four home runs and 15 RBI. His production dipped against right handed pitchers, where he posted a .231 average.
Beyond his bat, Rosario gives the Yankees flexibility off the bench. Though he came up as a shortstop, he has started games at six different positions during his major league career and has appeared everywhere on the field except first base and catcher. That versatility allows manager Aaron Boone to rest regulars while keeping a capable defender in the lineup.
Rosario owns a career slash line of .273/.308/.400 with 69 home runs, 389 RBI, and 110 stolen bases over nine seasons split among seven organizations.
The Yankees originally acquired Rosario at last year’s trade deadline, bringing him over from the Washington Nationals in exchange for two prospects.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].