New York Yankees Struggling Heading into Trade Deadline
As the second half of the MLB season opened last Friday, it became clear that the New York Yankees were in a precarious position. They found themselves out of the postseason picture, a game behind the third wild-card spot, and a game up on last place in the brutal AL East. Injuries and an underperforming offense have landed New York on the postseason bubble, and they’re desperate enough that they changed hitting coaches just before the All-Star break.
General Manager Brian Cashman spoke to MLB.com about the hitting coach change, stating, “I wanted to give things a chance to work its way through, but I feel honestly at this point, it’s not going to improve, at least as it sits… I feel like we’ll be better served with a new messenger.”
Despite their struggles, the Yankees are not considering selling at the trade deadline. They are still in the race and have ace pitcher Gerrit Cole in his prime. With a valuable player like Cole, the team is determined to make a push for a postseason spot. The trade deadline is approaching quickly on Tuesday, Aug. 1, giving the Yankees only two weeks to reinforce their roster for the stretch drive.
The Yankees have several needs heading into the trade deadline. Their single biggest need is the return of outfielder Aaron Judge, who tore a ligament in his toe in early June. Judge’s absence has had a significant impact on the team’s offense. However, since they cannot acquire Judge through a trade, they will have to wait for his return.
The team also needs to address their lackluster production at third base and in left field. Veterans Josh Donaldson and DJ LeMahieu have underperformed at the hot corner, and the Yankees have started nine different players in left field this season. They require a left-handed bat that doesn’t strike out excessively to boost their offense.
Pitching is another area of concern for the Yankees. While Carlos Rodón recently returned from the injured list, several other pitchers have struggled or are dealing with injuries. The team could benefit from acquiring a depth arm to lighten the load on their pitching staff.
In terms of potential trade targets, Cody Bellinger stands out as a player who could address the Yankees’ need for a lefty bat who doesn’t strike out excessively. Bellinger has a connection to the Yankees through his father, who played for the team in 1999. Jeimer Candelario, Jack Flaherty, and Tommy Pham are other players the Yankees could target to improve their roster.
If Shohei Ohtani becomes available, the Yankees would undoubtedly show interest in acquiring him. They have pursued him in the past and desperately need a left-handed power bat. However, it remains to be seen if the Yankees have the assets to win a bidding war for Ohtani.
In terms of trade chips, the Yankees have several prospects that could be enticing to other teams. Shortstop Oswald Peraza, outfielders Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones, and righties Chase Hampton and Will Warren are among the Yankees’ top trade assets.
With the trade deadline quickly approaching, the Yankees have limited time to make the necessary moves to improve their roster. They are determined to make a push for a postseason spot and will be looking to add impactful players that can help them down the stretch.