While we’re nearing the start of spring training, the hot stove season is still on. On Monday afternoon, the Yankees made a move, although this one can probably be described as reheating something in the microwave more than turning on the stove.
Earlier today, the Yankees picked up infielder Max Schuemann from the Athletics, sending minor-league pitcher Luis Burgos back the other way.
Schuemann has played for the A’s since 2024, having made his MLB debut in April of that year at the Oakland Coliseum. Over the last two seasons, he’s appeared in over 200 games for them, hitting .212/.306/.297 and putting up 1.9 fWAR. However, the A’s recently desginated him for assignment after making a waiver claim of their own.
Schuemann was much more of a regular in his rookie season in 2024, appearing in 133 games with 459 plate appearances. However with the emergence of A’s rookie Jacob Wilson and others, Schuemann was used way more in a utility role in 2025. As one can surmise from those overall stats, he’s not much of a hitter, although he was a bit better with regular playing time in 2024, putting up a 85 wRC+ compared to 62 last year.
As for what the Yankees expect from him, it’s probably to compete for a utility/bench spot. While the Yankees already have the likes of Oswaldo Cabrera and Jorbit Vivas who could fill that role, with Anthony Volpe out to start the 2026 season, there very well could be a bench spot to claim depending on overall roster health. At the major league level, Schuemann has played at least a couple innings at every position in the field other than pitcher, catcher, and first base. (And you can add in first base, if you count time in the minor leagues.) His defense also rates well, as he has a positive career WAR despite the career 78 wRC+. Schuemann also reportedly has all of his options, so the Yankees can stash him at Triple-A Scranton if they so choose.
To make room for Schuemann on the 40-man roster, the Yankees designated outfielder Yanquiel Fernández for assignment. The team had only acquired Fernández less than a week ago, claiming him off waivers from the Rockies.
As for who the Yankees sent the other way in the deal, Burgos is a 20-year-old pitcher with a career 3.39 ERA in 79.2 minor league innings. That being said, none of the innings have come at a level higher than the Dominican Summer League as of yet.
A good chunk of the Yankees’ roster is already in place as we head towards spring training, but the team is still tinkering with the edges as we inch our way there.