Astros may have perfect Ryan McMahon replacement at third base for Yankees

The Houston Astros may be considering a trade for a potential replacement for Ryan McMahon at third base for the New York Yankees. McMahon, who is owed $16 million next season, struggled offensively, posting a .213/.279/.357 season with 11 home runs and a .635 OPS. However, his defensive abilities were deemed subpar compared to his career average. The Yankees have a few options, such as offloading a portion of McMahon's salary or keeping him as a backup option.

Houston may be entering a slight rebuilding phase, with a struggling rotation, aging stars, and two key players nearing free agency. In this scenario, Isaac Paredes could emerge as a trade candidate. Paredes, a two-time All-Star, hit 25 homers and drove in 94 runs with a 4.0 WAR in 2026. His offensive production would be a significant upgrade for New York's infield while still providing a potential backup option at third base alongside Jose Caballero and Anthony Volpe.

The Astros could potentially trade Paredes before his free agency in 2028, allowing the Yankees to acquire him. The Yankees could absorb a portion of the trade by giving up prospects or other assets. With a relatively weak free agent class at third base this year, featuring players like Alec Bohm and Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Paredes could present an attractive option for the Yankees to bolster their infield and gain a new face at the hot corner.