In a stunning move that sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball, the San Francisco Giants acquired $313 million star Rafael Devers from the Boston Red Sox on Sunday night. Devers, now set for a fresh start, will likely slot into the Giants’ lineup at third base or remain as a designated hitter, reshaping the team’s infield dynamics. However, this blockbuster trade has opened the door for another seismic shift, with the New York Yankees emerging as potential frontrunners to land Giants’ third baseman Matt Chapman, a $151 million superstar who could be the perfect fit for the Bronx Bombers.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Yankees have been desperately seeking a long-term solution for their infield. Chapman, a 32-year-old defensive wizard, could be the answer. Currently on the injured list, Chapman is nearing a return and may begin a rehab assignment within a week. Before his injury, he was hitting .242 with 12 home runs and 30 RBIs, showcasing his above-average offensive capabilities with a career OPS+ of 119 and a .241 batting average.
Chapman’s defensive prowess is unmatched, boasting five Gold Gloves, two Platinum Gloves, and a Wilson Overall Defensive Player of the Year Award. His combination of elite defense and solid offense makes him a dream acquisition for New York, which has struggled to find a player who excels in both areas. General Manager Brian Cashman may have found a golden opportunity to bolster the Yankees’ roster with a proven star.
Giants got good news on Matt Chapman today. He met a specialist in Los Angeles and was told he can begin rehabbing his hand in about a week, has to wear his splint until then.
— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) June 13, 2025
The Giants, who typically hold significant leverage with Chapman’s five and a half years of team control remaining, now face a different reality. Devers’ arrival has shifted the dynamics in San Francisco, potentially relegating Chapman to a secondary role if Devers takes over at third base. This development could force the Giants to entertain trade offers for Chapman, who is unlikely to be content playing second fiddle. While Chapman’s value remains high, San Francisco may need to accept the best offer available to resolve their infield logjam.
For the Yankees, acquiring Chapman could be a game-changer, positioning them as serious contenders and potentially overshadowing Boston’s rivals in the race for elite infield talent. As Chapman nears his return, the baseball world will be watching closely to see if Cashman can pull off another blockbuster move, securing a $151 million superstar to solidify New York’s infield for years to come.