Yankees Trade Jose Trevino to Reds for Fernando Cruz and Alex Jackson

The New York Yankees made a significant roster move on Friday by trading veteran catcher Jose Trevino to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for right-handed pitcher Fernando Cruz and catcher Alex Jackson. This trade signals a shift for the Yankees, paving the way for a new era behind the plate.

Jose Trevino’s Legacy in New York

Trevino, 32, joined the Yankees in 2022 via a trade from the Texas Rangers. In his debut season with New York, he quickly proved to be an essential asset. His impressive performance earned him his first and only All-Star selection, and he capped off the season by winning both the American League Gold Glove and Platinum Glove Awards. Trevino led all MLB catchers with 21 defensive runs saved and posted solid offensive stats, including a .248 batting average, 11 home runs, and a .671 OPS.

However, injuries derailed Trevino’s momentum. Limited to 55 games in 2023, he began the 2024 season as the Yankees’ starting catcher but was sidelined in July due to a quadriceps injury. In his absence, rookie catcher Austin Wells stepped up and solidified his position as the Yankees’ primary backstop.

By the end of the 2024 season, Trevino’s production had declined. He finished with a .215 batting average, eight home runs, and a .642 OPS in 73 games. Meanwhile, Wells impressed by hitting 13 home runs, posting a .718 OPS in 115 games, and finishing third in the AL Rookie of the Year voting.

With Trevino’s departure, the 25-year-old Wells is now positioned to enter spring training as the Yankees’ everyday catcher.

Fernando Cruz Joins the Yankees’ Bullpen

The Yankees acquired Fernando Cruz as part of the deal, bolstering their bullpen. Cruz, 34, made his MLB debut in 2022 at age 32 after years of playing internationally and in the minor leagues. In 141 MLB appearances, the right-hander has a career ERA of 4.52.

During the 2023 season, Cruz posted a 4.86 ERA with 109 strikeouts over 69 outings. His versatility and experience make him a valuable addition to a Yankees bullpen that already made headlines last week by acquiring closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. Cruz, who remains under team control until 2026, will aim to bring depth and consistency to the Yankees’ relief corps.

Alex Jackson Adds Depth Behind the Plate

The trade also brings Alex Jackson to New York. The 28-year-old catcher, signed by Cincinnati to a minor-league deal last month, has played parts of five MLB seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, and Atlanta Braves.

While Jackson has struggled offensively—holding a career batting average of .132 with a .456 OPS and six home runs in 124 games—he provides organizational depth for the Yankees. Jackson will likely compete for a backup role or serve as an experienced option in the minor leagues.

Reds’ Perspective

For the Reds, acquiring Jose Trevino offers a veteran presence behind the plate as they seek to strengthen their roster. Trevino, who will enter free agency after the 2025 season, brings elite defensive skills and leadership qualities to Cincinnati.

Yankees Look to the Future

This trade represents a strategic shift for the Yankees. With Austin Wells emerging as the catcher of the future and the bullpen gaining reinforcements like Cruz, the team is positioning itself for long-term success.

The Yankees have consistently been active in the offseason, and this latest move underscores their commitment to building a competitive roster. Fans will watch closely to see how these changes impact the team as they head into the 2025 season.

By trading a decorated veteran like Jose Trevino, the Yankees signal their trust in their young talent and their determination to remain contenders in the American League.