Former Blue Jay Kendrys Morales traded to Yankees

After less than two months with the Oakland Athletics, Morales is now a New York Yankee, hoping to help their injury plagued roster.

First baseman/designated hitter Kendrys Morales will head to the New York Yankees, the team announced Tuesday evening. The Yankees acquired Morales in a trade with the Oakland Athletics that involves New York sending cash considerations or a player to be named later to the A’s.

Morales, 35, was designated for assignment by the Athletics Monday after limping to a .204/.310/.259 slash over his first 34 games to begin the season.

Morales, of course, was acquired by Oakland the night before Opening Day from the Blue Jays in exchange for minor leaguer Jesus Lopez and international bonus slot money.

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At first glance, this deal appears to be logical for the Yankees, who, despite having played to a respectable 24-16, have lost Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Greg Bird, Didi Gregorious, and Miguel Andujar to injuries so far.

Though an aging and deteriorating asset, Morales could provide some decent production if he’s allowed to hit in big spots.

Morales currently sits 44th among active players in doubles, 39th in total bases, 28th in home runs, 30th in RBI and 56th in walks.

In parts of two seasons with the Blue Jays, the native of Fomento, Cuba slashed .249/.318/.442 with 49 home runs and 142 RBI in 280 games, adding 40 doubles in 1079 plate appearances. A large portion of his salary is still being taken care of by the Blue Jays.

According to Baseball Reference, Morales has been worth a WAR of -0.4 so far this season, tallying 126 plate appearances and appearing primarily at first base. Previously, he logged time with the Kansas City Royals, Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels.