Could Ke’Bryan Hayes Be the Solution for the Yankees’ Infield Woes?

The New York Yankees are navigating a pivotal offseason, addressing roster gaps left by the departures of outfielder Juan Soto and second baseman Gleyber Torres. While they’ve made strides to fill some holes, Torres’ exit has left a noticeable void in the infield. A potential solution may be on the horizon: Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes.

The speculation began when a social media rumor suggested Hayes requested a trade out of Pittsburgh. While Pirates insiders have dismissed the report, the buzz has been loud enough to reach ESPN New York radio host and YES Network announcer Michael Kay, who shared his thoughts on how Hayes might fit in the Bronx.

“Ke’Bryan Hayes is a defensive magician at third base,” Kay remarked on his show Thursday. “His hitting is not what it should be, but he’s obviously not happy in Pittsburgh. If I’m the Yankees, I’m calling the Pirates and going, ‘What do you want?’”

Hayes’ Fit in New York

The son of former Yankee Charlie Hayes, Ke’Bryan is no stranger to the pressures of playing in the Bronx. Known for his elite defensive prowess, Hayes won a Gold Glove in 2023 and remains one of the best in the game at the hot corner. At just 28 years old and under contract through at least 2029 on an eight-year, $70 million deal, Hayes represents an affordable and long-term solution for a Yankees team in need of defensive stability.

Offensively, Hayes has yet to reach his full potential, but the Yankees could be betting on his upside. His father, Charlie Hayes, has previously expressed concerns about how the Pirates approach hitting, fueling speculation that a change of scenery and access to New York’s resources could unlock more consistent production at the plate.

Obstacles to a Deal

Trading for Hayes won’t come without challenges. The Pirates view him as a cornerstone of their rebuild, and any deal for the third baseman would likely require a significant package of prospects and major-league-ready talent. Additionally, as Kay noted, the Yankees may be hesitant to make a major move without first finding a trade partner for starting pitcher Marcus Stroman, whose future in pinstripes remains uncertain.

Despite these hurdles, Hayes could be the exact type of player the Yankees need to bolster their infield and stabilize their roster heading into the 2025 season.

Why the Yankees Should Act

The Yankees’ need for a reliable infielder is glaring. Hayes’ elite glove and untapped offensive potential make him a compelling target, particularly for a team that values versatility and defense. While his acquisition would require a steep price, the Yankees have shown they are not afraid to swing for the fences when the right opportunity presents itself.

For now, Hayes remains a Pirate, but the rumor mill suggests the Yankees could be ready to make a call. Whether Pittsburgh is willing to listen may determine how quickly Brian Cashman can patch the holes in New York’s infield and position the Yankees for success in 2025.

The Bronx faithful can only wait and watch—but in the high-stakes world of Yankees baseball, bold moves often define the offseason. Will Ke’Bryan Hayes be the next piece to don pinstripes?