Athletics’ All-Star catcher could be ‘valuable’ backup plan for Yankees originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The New York Yankees could use a right-handed hitting catcher at the trade deadline.
Recently, general manager Brian Cashman told reporters that the Yankees’ catcher situation is an “issue” as the second half of the season nears.
Austin Wells has hit a few home runs lately, but his outlook on the season has not been positive.
If the Yankees cannot land a trade for Hunter Goodman from the Colorado Rockies or Ryan Jeffers from the Minnesota Twins, an All-Star catcher from the Athletics may be another option.
“Jonah Heim is probably the most valuable expiring contract for the A’s to dangle at the deadline. The 31-year-old is a former All-Star and Gold Glove winner at catcher,” FanSided’s Christopher Kline wrote Monday.
“The [Shea] Langeliers explosion has forced Heim to spend a lot of time at first base or DH, but he’s still razor-sharp behind home plate,” Kline added. “Any team looking to upgrade its catcher at-bats without a huge defensive sacrifice should inquire.”
Kline’s description of Heim fits the profile of the type of backup catcher the Yankees need. However, Heim is a switch-hitter.
Regardless, most of his at-bats would come against left-handed pitching.
In 78 at-bats against southpaws in 2026, Heim is hitting .295 with a .962 OPS. Those numbers drop to .174 and .541 in 86 at-bats against right-handed pitching.
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“The numbers under the hood are a bit worrisome, and Heim’s track record at the plate is not terribly inspiring. He definitely benefits from playing at Sutter Health Park,” Kline added. “That said, Heim’s clutch-time heroics have become difficult to ignore. He delivers in big spots and brings extremely positive vibes, on top of a valuable skill set at a position where consistent offensive production is scarce.”
Heim may not be as exciting a trade as Goodman or Jeffers, but the Yankees need a better, more experienced hitter than Ali Sanchez.
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