On Monday, the New York Yankees completed a trade with the Athletics, acquiring infielder Max Schuemann in exchange for right-handed pitcher Luis Burgos, as reported by Bob Nightengale. This move brings Schuemann, who has spent the last two seasons with the Athletics, onto the Yankees’ roster, adding depth to their infield options heading into the upcoming seasons.
Schuemann’s Performance and Challenges with the Athletics
Max Schuemann played two major league seasons with the Athletics, appearing in 133 games in 2024 and 100 games in 2025. In 2024, Schuemann posted a batting average of .220 with an OPS of .619, hitting seven home runs and driving in 34 runs. However, strikeouts plagued his performance, as he struck out 119 times that year. In 2025, he showed improvement by striking out only 35 times, but his batting average dropped to .197 with just two home runs and 13 RBIs. At 28 years old, Schuemann aims to become a valuable contributor as part of the Yankees’ lineup.
Details on Luis Burgos and Roster Changes Following the Trade
Luis Burgos, the right-handed pitcher sent to the Athletics, holds a career minor-league ERA of 3.39, a WHIP of 1.32, and averages 8.02 strikeouts per nine innings across 79.2 innings pitched. To make space for Schuemann on the 40-man roster, the Yankees designated outfielder Yanquiel Fernández for assignment and outrighted right-handed pitcher Dom Hamel and infielder Braden Shewmake to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Both Hamel and Shewmake have been invited to the Yankees’ 2026 Major League spring training as non-roster invitees.
Historical Note and Recent Roster Moves
Schuemann’s addition carries a notable historical link, as he becomes the second player from Kalamazoo, Michigan, to join the Yankees organization after Derek Jeter. This connection adds an intriguing layer to his arrival. Meanwhile, just last weekend, the Yankees brought back Paul Goldschmidt, the former superstar hitter, who is expected to play a significant role in shaping the team’s prospects for 2026.
Expectations for Schuemann’s Role with the Yankees
With the Yankees’ roster undergoing adjustments, Max Schuemann is entering a challenging but promising situation where his major league experience could provide needed support in the infield. The team’s anxious yet hopeful atmosphere reflects their determination to strengthen their roster as they prepare for the next season’s uncertainties and opportunities.
“To make room on the 40-man roster, the Yankees have designated OF Yanquiel Fernández for assignment.”
?Yankees front office statement
“Additionally, the Yankees outrighted RHP Dom Hamel and INF Braden Shewmake off the Major League roster and onto the roster of Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Hamel and Shewmake have been invited to 2026 Major League spring training as non-roster invitees.”
?Yankees front office statement
The Yankees acquire A’s infielder Max Schuemann for minor league RHP Luis Burgos.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 9, 2026
The New York Yankees today announced that they have acquired infielder Max Schuemann from the Athletics in exchange for minor league right-handed pitcher Luis Burgos.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Yankees have designated OF Yanquiel Fernández for assignment.…
— Yankees PR Dept. (@YankeesPR) February 9, 2026
Max Schuemann would not be the first Kalamazoo, Michigan native to play for the Yankees. https://t.co/jc65Rkq3Va
— Conor Foley (@ConorFoleyYES) February 9, 2026
