The Yankees announced Tuesday they have acquired infielder Rougned Odor, and cash considerations, from the Texas Rangers in exchange for minor league outfielders Antonio Cabello and Josh Stowers.
The move give the Yankees an opportunity to increase their infield depth.
“Hopefully we can help him get that talent out that we’ve seen flashed over the years,” manager Aaron Boone said.
The left-handed-hitting Odor hit .167 with 10 home runs and 30 RBIs in 38 games for Texas last season. His swing, however, could play well at Yankee Stadium.
“He has the ability to really impact the ball from the left side at Yankee Stadium,” Boone said. “We feel like that could play up. Hopefully just getting in our environment and our culture will unlock some things for him.”
In his career, Odor has appeared solely at second base, posting a .975 fielding percentage (95 errors, 3,816 total chances) at the position. This spring, however, the Rangers did work him out extensively at third base.
In a corresponding move, to make room for Odor, the Yankees designated infielder Thairo Estrada for assignment. The Yankees also optioned pitcher Michael King to their alternate site.
Odor has a career .237 batting average, however he has pop in his bat. He has hit 30 or more home runs in a season three times. Plate discipline was an issue for Odor with the Rangers and, ultimately, contributed to the team parting ways with him.
Image: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
