Pair Of Yankees Catchers Reportedly Placed On Trade Block Signaling End Of Stint In New York

New York could end up dealing away two of its catchers this offseason

The New York Yankees sound like they are going to be making a plethora of moves in the not-so-distant future.

New York seemingly has a logjam at catcher and reportedly has told other teams that both Ben Rortvedt and Kyle Higashioka are available through trade, according to SNY's Andy Martino. 

"The Yankees are signaling in talks with other clubs that at least two of the catchers on the 40-man roster are available in a trade, according to league sources," Martino said. "The Yankees’ expectation is to enter the season with Jose Trevino and Austin Wells as the catching tandem. That leaves Ben Rortvedt and Kyle Higashioka as potential victims of a roster crunch.

"Rortvedt, 26, has impressed the Yankees and rival scouts with his defense but has not yet proven he can hit in the major leagues. The Yanks would keep him around as depth on merit alone, but that is not possible because Rortvedt is out of minor-league options. Higashioka, 33, is a highly respected veteran with one year remaining until free agency. Wells’ emergence is the only factor that makes him a potential non-tender candidate."

Higashioka has found his name in trade rumors already this offseason but it sounds like he and Rortvedt could both be moved. The Yankees' biggest needs are on the offensive end and the club even reportedly could complete a blockbuster deal for San Diego Padres star Juan Soto. New York also will be looking to improve the starting rotation. The Yankees seem set at catcher heading into 2024 with Wells and Trevino on the roster so it sounds like Higashioka and Rortvedt will be playing elsewhere.