Sports · Baseball · 4 hrs ago
Yankees Have Previously Considered Nationals Center Fielder Jacob Young
The Yankees have previously shown interest in Nationals center fielder Jacob Young, but it is unclear whether they held formal trade talks.
Washington explored the possibility of trading the 27-year-old in January, and other clubs may also need a center fielder.
Young stands out for his speed and strong defense, with 79 stolen bases and high defensive ratings since his 2023 debut.
His batting has been below league average, though his 2025 performance was the best of his career by that measure.
He is under team control through 2029, giving a potential buyer several seasons with a relatively affordable player.
New York has several outfielders in line for next season, so it would likely need to trade someone to make room for him.
The Nationals may continue listening to trade interest, while the Yankees could consider Young again if their roster needs change.
The Yankees have previously shown interest in Nationals center fielder Jacob Young, according to Joel Sherman of The New York Post.
It is unclear whether the teams held formal trade talks or whether the Yankees were conducting due diligence.
The Nationals were known to be exploring a trade of Young in January.
Young, 27, has strong defensive and speed statistics but has been a below-average hitter in his career.
He is eligible for arbitration for the first time in 2027 and can be controlled for two more seasons after that.
- Who
- The Yankees and Nationals. The player involved is Nationals center fielder Jacob Young.
- What
- The Yankees have shown past interest in Young. It is unclear whether the teams held formal talks.
- When
- The Yankees’ interest was in the past; the sources do not give a date.
- Where
- New York and Washington, D.C., through the Yankees and Nationals. A specific place for any discussions is not stated.
- Why
- Not stated
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Young made his big league debut with the Nationals.
The Nationals were known to be exploring a trade of Young.
Young recorded a .252/.318/.390 batting line in 471 plate appearances.
- Age
- 27
- Career batting line since 2023
- .248/.312/.339
- Career stolen bases
- 79 in 104 opportunities
- Defensive Runs Saved
- +22
- Outs Above Average
- +49 as a center fielder since 2023
- Arbitration eligibility
- First eligible in 2027