Good news for the New York Yankees despite grappling with DJ LeMahieu’s absence due to his injury. In fact,18-year-old the club surprised their fans recently as they welcomed veteran utility player Jon Berti from the Miami Marlins. This was done as a part of a three-team trade and one person in this grabbed everyone’s attention. The young Yankees prospect John Cruz. 

At just 18 years old, Cruz has stood out as a player. Initially, though he was shrouded in a bit of mystery for most baseball fans, he has emerged catching everyone’s attention. The fact that the Yankees picked him to trade for Berti, speaks volumes about the high value the former held in the Yankees’ farm. So, who exactly is John Cruz? 

From Being A Dominican Prospect to Miami Marlin – John Cruz’s Rise To A Bright Future

Hailing from the Dominican Republic, Cruz put pen to paper for a minor league contract with the Yankees as an international free agent in June 2022. He let no time go a waste and started turning heads in his first professional season. He lit up the Florida Complex League (FCL) in 2023. Additionally, the left-handed hitter attracted applause as he slashed an impressive .294/.376/.531 with 10 home runs. Not to mention his league-leading 47 RBI.

Justin Shackil even tweeted about the young gun’s accomplishments. He said, “led the Florida Complex League with 47 RBI and ranked second with 10 HR as a 17 year old last season. He was on the Yankees Spring Breakout roster this year and a top 30 prospect according to MLB Pipeline.” Now isn’t that pretty impressive? 

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While Cruz may be a fresh face and a new name to many fans, his talent and early success hints at a bright future. The Marlins have reason to believe that they have a future star in their midst. Post the acquisition, all eyes will be on Cruz as he grooms and undergoes nurturing in Miami. 

Jon Berti and John Cruz Getting Ready to Establish Themselves in Their New Teams

While focusing on Cruz, it is important to highlight the man he was traded for. Jon Berti. The 34-year-old Berti is not just an average injury stand-in for DJ LeMahieu’s absence. Max Goodman poured in praises about him stating that he is “good for depth,” for the Yankees. Clearly, he is far more than a replacement option.

Meet Jon Berti: DJ LeMahieu’s Unexpected Yankees Replacement After 3-Team Trade

Berti is a sign of defensive versatility. But that’s not it, he will be a huge asset for the Yanks in offering his offensive expertise too. He is a five-position player who can pull off playing outfield corners, shortstop, second base, and third base. However, in the initial stages he’ll likely be seen the most of the action at third base.

With that, this three-team trade including John Cruz and Jon Breti seems to be a step in a great direction for both the Marlins and the Yankees.