The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees could use help at the hot corner and they are both rumored to have interest in acquiring Philadelphia Phillies' Michael Young via trade. Remember what happened last time the Red Sox and Yankees went after a third baseman? Well, let's just say that move is still haunting the Yanks as the Sox went on to win the World Series after losing the race for Alex Rodriguez. Although Young isn't A-Rod, he would be an improvement for both teams as the trade deadline is just a little over two weeks away.
Let's start with the first place Red Sox, who could draw more interest from Young, who has a no-trade clause.
Will MIddlebrooks was expected to man third base this season. The 24-year-old proved to be a solid hitter in 2012 as he replaced Kevin Youkilis. He posted a triple slash of .288/.325/.509 with 15 home runs and 54 RBI. It seemed like a no-brainer, Middlebrooks was the future third baseman of the organization. However, 2013 has been a cold, cold year for Middlebrooks. He is currently in Triple-A Pawtucket working on his swing after posting a .192 batting average with nine home runs and 25 RBI.
The Red Sox have had a tough time filling in Middlebrooks' production, having used five other third basemen this season. Without Middlebrooks' numbers, the Red Sox have received two home runs and 23 RBI. Jose Iglesias has a .395 batting average when playing third base, but he's not great at driving in runs.
With Young, the Red Sox can get a player who can run into a long ball easier than Iglesias. Young has only hit six long balls this year, but the Red Sox are more interested in his .288 batting average and his ability to split the gaps and go the other way.
The only reason why Young might consider the Yankees is because of the success he's had in the new ballpark. In 19 games played at the new stadium, Young's triple slash is .370/.410/.466. He's hit one home run with 11 RBI, collecting 27 hits in 73 at bats. Yankee third basemen have produced four home runs and 25 RBI in 2013, while hitting .225 through the first 95 games of the Yankees' season.
Without a doubt, Young would be an upgrade for both teams at least for one season before the 36-year-old becomes a free agent.
