YANKEES BRING BENINTENDI TO THE BRONX
The New York Yankees acquired outfielder Andrew Benintendi from the Kansas City Royals for pitchers Beck Way, Chandler Champlain and T.J. Sikkema.
What does it give the New York Yankees
The Yankees are getting a quality outfielder who hits for average in Benintendi. He will likely play left field for New York, since there is a lot of ground to cover at Yankee Stadium (and Benintendi has great range). His home-run power also figures to get a boost by playing half the time in the Bronx. His arrival could mean fewer at-bats for the struggling Joey Gallo, as well as Aaron Hicks.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
The Royals were clearly looking to add to their pool of pitching prospects with any Benintendi trade. They received three from New York in Way, Champlain and Sikkema. Way is a recent draftee (2022) who has a chance to become a serviceable starting pitcher. Champlain has strikeout ability, which may be best served as a reliever. Sikkema has arguably the most upside of the three as a left-handed starter prospect.
Fantasy impact
Benintendi's fantasy stock is definitely on the rise with the move to the powerhouse Yankees. He is probably not available in most leagues but could be a great trade target for fantasy contenders down the stretch. None of Sikkema, Way or Champlain should be picked up right away, but keep an eye on their progress for the rest of 2022.
