Yankees linked to blockbuster trade for former World Series champion

The New York Yankees have been connected to a blockbuster MLB trade idea involving Texas Rangers shortstop Corey Seager as they look to address a glaring hole at third base. The proposal is considered a long shot, but it includes an interesting twist that could make the deal more appealing: keeping Seager at shortstop while top prospect George Lombard Jr. moves to third base. MORE: Predicting MLB free agent landing spots in 2026-27 offseason Yankees could target Corey Seager in blockbuster trade The idea was explored by the New York Post as the Yankees begin looking for solutions at third base following a disappointing season from Ryan McMahon. Seager would represent a major offensive upgrade if he can stay healthy, and his postseason experience would bring another proven winner to the New York lineup. The 32-year-old is a two-time World Series champion and two-time World Series MVP. He helped lead the Rangers to their first championship in 2023 and has established himself as one of baseball’s premier offensive shortstops when healthy. However, there are legitimate reasons why this would be a risky move. Seager finished the 2026 season with a career-worst 106 OPS+ while appearing in just 102 games. He also recently underwent elbow surgery, adding another layer of uncertainty to a potential deal. The financial commitment would be substantial, too. Seager has approximately $165 million remaining on his contract through 2031. Texas could potentially be motivated to move the contract as it looks to manage its payroll, but the Yankees would have to be comfortable taking on a significant financial obligation. George Lombard Jr. could be part of the solution The most interesting part of the proposed trade involves how the Yankees would handle their infield afterward. Rather than immediately moving Seager to third base, the suggestion is to let him remain at shortstop for the 2027 season while Lombard takes over at the hot corner. Lombard made his MLB debut in August and is viewed as an important part of New York’s future. He has experience at multiple infield positions in the minor leagues, giving the Yankees some flexibility if they decide to pursue Seager. The arrangement would allow New York to add an established star without immediately forcing Seager into a new defensive position. The Yankees could then reassess the infield alignment down the road as Lombard continues developing. Of course, getting a deal done would be difficult. Seager has a full no-trade clause, meaning he would have to approve a move to New York. His contract and recent injury concerns also make this a significant gamble. Still, the Yankees have a clear need at third base and could use another impact bat. If Texas is willing to make the financial commitment manageable and Seager approves the destination, this long-shot trade could give New York one of the biggest additions of the offseason. —  Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter  —