Oct 23, 2022; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa (12) throws out Houston Astros first baseman Yuli Gurriel (not pictured) in the sixth inning during game four of the ALCS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
The New York Yankees have reportedly avoided arbitration with Isiah Kiner-Falefa, signing the shortstop to a one-year, $6 million contract.
The New York Yankees are in agreement on a one-year, $6 million contract with shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa to avoid arbitration, according to sources familiar with the situation. Kiner-Falefa was a candidate to be non-tendered, but he remains in New York for one season before reaching free agency.
Why did the Yankees decide to keep Isiah Kiner-Falefa?
Last season, the Yankees acquired Kiner-Falefa in hopes of filling the shortstop position — at least until top prospect Anthony Volpe is eventually called up. But it did not go as planned, as Kiner-Falefa struggled defensively (he committed 15 errors in 138 games) and hit only .261/.314/.327 with four home runs and 48 RBI.
Kiner-Falefa remains a trade candidate, as the Yankees might attempt to give Oswald Peraza, Oswaldo Cabrera and even Volpe a chance to play shortstop. But Kiner-Falefa’s $6 million contract is fully guaranteed, which is not always the case with contracts to avoid arbitration.