Top 5 MLB Trade Fits for Lane Thomas This Offseason

5. New York Yankees – A Smart, Low-Risk Move

The New York Yankees need to replace Juan Soto, who signed a record deal with the Mets. While big names like Teoscar Hernández and Anthony Santander remain on their radar, Thomas offers a more affordable and versatile solution.

Why Thomas Fits: Adds lineup depth alongside Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton
Power Potential: 20+ HR and .250 AVG upside
Defensive Versatility: Can play across the outfield, allowing patience with Jasson Domínguez

Thomas’ speed would also improve a Yankees team that ranked 24th in stolen bases and dead last in BSR in 2024. His addition may not be flashy but would undoubtedly be an upgrade over Alex Verdugo.

2. Atlanta Braves – Stability and Speed in the Outfield

While the Atlanta Braves are seeking a left-handed bat, they cannot ignore the immediate need to upgrade their outfield. With Ronald Acuña Jr. rehabbing from ACL surgery, Thomas' reliability and speed could provide critical support.

Why Thomas Fits: Upgrade over Jarred Kelenic (.679 OPS)
Durability: Three consecutive seasons with 500+ plate appearances
Speed Factor: 32 stolen bases make up for Acuña's likely drop in steals

The Braves are known for unlocking player potential, and Thomas could thrive in Atlanta’s lineup while offering excellent depth and defensive flexibility.

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3. Kansas City Royals – Middle-of-the-Order Help

The Kansas City Royals are searching for a middle-of-the-order bat to provide support for stars like Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino, and Salvador Perez. Thomas fits the Royals’ profile perfectly with his blend of power and speed.

Why Thomas Fits: Upgrade over Hunter Renfroe, MJ Melendez, and Kyle Isbel
Offensive Boost: Thomas’ .709 OPS outperforms Kansas City’s current options
Baserunning Boost: Strengthens a team ranked 11th in SB and 7th in BSR

Since Thomas is on a short-term contract, his trade price would align with Kansas City's rebuilding plans while immediately improving their offensive production.

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4. Pittsburgh Pirates – Bolstering a Promising Core

With young ace Paul Skenes leading a rotation full of potential, the Pittsburgh Pirates need to bolster their offense to match their pitching dominance. The Pirates’ outfield ranked 30th in wRC+ and 29th in OPS last season.

Why Thomas Fits: Reliable upgrade for right field alongside Bryan Reynolds and Oneil Cruz
Power-Speed Threat: Provides 20+ HR potential and 30+ stolen bases
Affordable Addition: Ideal for a small-market team like Pittsburgh

Thomas’ bat and defensive reliability would provide the Pirates with a much-needed offensive boost as they aim to capitalize on their improving young core and chase postseason contention.

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5. New York Yankees – A Smart, Low-Risk Move

The New York Yankees need to replace Juan Soto, who signed a record deal with the Mets. While big names like Teoscar Hernández and Anthony Santander remain on their radar, Thomas offers a more affordable and versatile solution.

Why Thomas Fits: Adds lineup depth alongside Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton
Power Potential: 20+ HR and .250 AVG upside
Defensive Versatility: Can play across the outfield, allowing patience with Jasson Domínguez

Thomas’ speed would also improve a Yankees team that ranked 24th in stolen bases and dead last in BSR in 2024. His addition may not be flashy but would undoubtedly be an upgrade over Alex Verdugo.