Yankees linked to offseason trade for Brewers' 18-HR All-Star originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Yankees may be very busy this offseason.
After falling short in the postseason, general manager Brian Cashman will be looking at potential roster upgrades.
One position of need is at catcher. Austin Wells is a strong defender behind the plate but leaves much to be desired hitting-wise.
New York should be looking for a right-handed platoon partner for Wells in free agency, or they could make a big splash via trade.
Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley believes the Milwaukee Brewers could look to trade William Contreras this offseason, despite the club's run to the World Series.
"Trading Contreras wouldn't help the Brewers now (or maybe any time soon), but it might be what's best for the franchise's future.
"If they aren't prepared to pay what it'll cost to keep him next offseason, then moving him during this one could be the best option on the board," Buckley wrote.
Buckley predicts the Yankees will acquire Contreras, who is one year away from free agency, from the Brewers this winter.
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Contreras, a three-time All-Star, is one of the best hitting catchers in baseball. He hit .270/.341/.417 with 18 home runs and a .758 OPS in 147 regular season games.
That offensive production would be a huge upgrade over Wells, who hit .186/.292/.332 with 14 homers and a .624 OPS.
The Yankees would probably have to send Milwaukee one Major League-ready pitcher and a few prospects to secure the trade for Contreras, but it might be worth it to help balance their lineup.
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