Yankees News: Kendrys Morales Acquired in Trade with A's for Cash Considerations

The New York Yankees announced the acquisition of Oakland Athletics first baseman/designated hitter Kendrys Morales on Wednesday.

Oakland will receive cash considerations or a player to be named later.

The 35-year-old amassed one home run and seven RBI in 34 games this season, with a slash line of .204/.310/.259. The A's designated the 14-year veteran for assignment on Monday.

New York placed right-handed starting pitcher Jonathan Loaisiga on the 60-day injured list with a right rotator cuff strain in a corresponding move.

The Yankees need depth at first base with Greg Bird on the 60-day injured list as of Sunday.

Luke Voit has done well as the Yankees' starter thanks to 10 home runs, 34 RBI and a .831 OPS, but the backup plan right now is DJ LeMahieu, who has made a career-high two appearances at the position.

The ex-Chicago Cub and Colorado Rockies infielder had only played four games at first base from 2011 to 2018 before putting on the pinstripes. Morales has played 442 games at first throughout his career, so this move allows LeMahieu to solely focus on manning second and third.

Nineteen position players have already taken the field for the 24-16 Yankees, who are in second place in the American League East despite numerous players currently or formerly landing on the injured list.

Only four position players have suited up more than 32 times this season, and Morales is just the latest reinforcement needed to fill in a roster spot for an injured player.

The Yanks will host the Baltimore Orioles for a Wednesday doubleheader before welcoming the first-place Tampa Bay Rays for a three-game set at home.