The New York Yankees made waves last season with their blockbuster acquisition of Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the Miami Marlins, a move that bolstered their roster for a World Series push. Now, as the 2025 trade deadline approaches, speculation is swirling that the two teams could reconnect for another high-profile deal, with the Marlins’ promising infielder Connor Norby emerging as a prime target for the Bronx Bombers.
With the Yankees in desperate need of a right-handed bat and a long-term solution at third base, Yardbarker’s Jacob Mountz suggests that Norby could address both needs in one fell swoop. “The Marlins, who once again sit at the bottom of the NL East, will undoubtedly be sellers at the trade deadline,” Mountz wrote. “Norby, who combines plus power and exceptional contact-hitting talent with ample speed, will likely receive plenty of attention if he continues on his current trajectory. As things stand, Norby would represent a vast improvement over the Yankees’ existing options.”
Norby, a second-round pick by the Baltimore Orioles in the 2021 MLB Draft out of East Carolina, has yet to fully realize his potential at the major league level. Rated as a top 100 prospect by Baseball Prospectus (No. 82) and Baseball America (No. 93) before the 2023 season, Norby was traded to Miami last year alongside outfielder Kyle Stowers for left-handed pitcher Trevor Rogers. Despite a logjam of infield talent in Baltimore limiting his opportunities, Norby has shown flashes of brilliance since joining the Marlins.
In 2024, Norby struggled in limited action with the Orioles, posting a .592 OPS in 32 plate appearances. However, he found his stride in Miami, batting .247/.315/.445 with seven home runs over 162 plate appearances as a rookie. This season, despite an oblique strain that sidelined him during spring training, Norby has continued to develop, slashing .269/.310/.418 with three home runs, 16 RBIs, four stolen bases, and a 99 wRC+ in 142 plate appearances since his activation on April 17.
Defensively, Norby has spent significant time at third base, logging 281 innings across 34 games in 2025. His defensive metrics, however, leave room for improvement, with negative-two Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and zero Outs Above Average (OAA). While his glove may not be his strongest asset, his offensive upside and versatility make him an intriguing fit for a Yankees team seeking stability at the hot corner.
The Yankees’ current third base situation revolves around Jazz Chisholm Jr., who is expected to resume his role as the everyday third baseman upon completing his rehab assignment. Chisholm, acquired from Miami last season, proved to be a dynamic addition to New York’s lineup. However, ongoing offensive struggles from second baseman DJ LeMahieu (.505 OPS) could prompt the Yankees to shift Chisholm back to second base, where he logged 251 innings before landing on the injured list in April. Such a move would reopen the door for a third base upgrade, with Norby’s name rising to the top of the wish list.
While Norby’s potential is undeniable, his availability is far from certain. Under team control through 2030, the 24-year-old infielder remains a valuable asset for a rebuilding Marlins squad. His combination of power, speed, and contact-hitting ability makes him a cornerstone for Miami’s future. However, concerns about his plate discipline—evidenced by a modest walk rate—could make the Marlins open to offers, especially from a Yankees team with a knack for swinging transformative deals.
If the Marlins do entertain trade talks, Norby could become the crown jewel of another blockbuster between the two clubs. For the Yankees, landing a former top prospect with years of control and untapped potential would be a coup, addressing immediate needs while securing a piece for the future. As the trade deadline nears, all eyes will be on whether New York can pry Norby away from Miami in what would be an unthinkable coup for the pinstripes.