Yankees Seek Deadline Upgrades to Reignite Playoff Hopes
The Yankees’ Struggle
Despite being in last place in the American League East with very disappointing performances, the New York Yankees are still within reach of a playoff spot. Due to these performances, the Yankees are trying to seek reinforcements at the trade deadline to improve their chances of making the postseason.
9 games ago, the Yankees had won 7 of 10 & were 2 games clear for a playoff spot
Now they've lost 7 of 9 and are 2.5 GB as Orioles went 8-1, Red Sox went 8-1 & Blue Jays went 7-1
Fangraphs Playoff Odds down from 75.0 to 36.1 (even 2 days ago it was 51.5) https://t.co/ugtX5Bqbx3 pic.twitter.com/JNBRaP1152
— James Smyth (@JamesSmyth621) July 18, 2023
The Yankees are 15-20 since Judge got hurt and 10-12 since Hal Steinbrenner said he confused about why fans are upset
They’ve fallen from third place to last and from a playoff spot to 2.5 games out since Hal spoke pic.twitter.com/m96aymT83I
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) July 18, 2023
Future Prospects?
The Yankees’ general manager, Brian Cashman, expressed the team’s desire to receive an offensive contributor for the left field position. Some players that can fit this spot include Cody Bellinger, who is a former National League MVP, and Randal Grichuk from the Colorado Rockies. Dylan Carlson from the St. Louis Cardinals is also a potential candidate.
Brian Cashman says that among other things, the Yankees would like to add "a bat that could be more of an established, everyday offensive contributor in left field" at the trade deadline pic.twitter.com/QrOBKTaICc
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) July 16, 2023
Who are the Yankees going to Trade For?
In addition to the outfield help, the Yankees also need a starting pitcher, a backend reliever, and a catcher. The return of Nestor Cortes will add a boost to their rotation, but acquiring good pitchers in the trade market will be challenging. Pitchers like Lucas Giolitto and Lance Lynn can potentially be available for the Yankees.
Although the Yankees have a decently strong bullpen, they are looking to add another high-leverage arm to strengthen their late-inning options. However, they might also consider improving their bullpen depth with a middle reliever. The extra strength in the bullpen is a unique angle to come from, but it still might increase the Yankees’ playoff hope from coming true.
What are the chances of the Yankee’s making the playoffs?
Surprisingly, the Yankees are also looking for an upgrade at the catcher position. Jose Trevino and Kyle Higashioka didn’t have a strong offensive season, but defense is usually valued more for catchers. The Yankees’ options for an upgrade are limited though, with Salvador Perez being a potential target. Acquiring Perez could be challenging though due to his salary obligations, with $20 million this year and $42 million over the next two seasons.
All in all, the Yankees are trying to explore various trade options to address their needs. With their hard-to-see performances recently, it’s no surprise that they will have to make upgrades to improve their chances of a late-season push for a playoff spot.
