The August 1 trade deadline is just around the corner, and the New York Yankees are actively looking to buy. The team would primarily address the dire need for an outfield hitter, preferably a left-handed hitter. Here are 8 such hitting targets that the Bronx Bombers could consider trading at the deadline.
1. Cody Bellinger – Chicago Cubs
Outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger is supposedly the Yankee’s prime trade target. He perfectly fits into the team’s criteria. So far, he has hit .319 with 14 home runs, 44 RBIs, and .918 OPS. Moreover, the Yankee stadium’s dynamics will bring out the best of the former NL MVP. While the asking price would be high, Bellinger is arguably the antidote to the Yanks’ offensive woes.
2. Brendan Donovan – St. Louis Cardinals
Outfielder/second baseman Brendan Donovan is under the Cardinal’s control till 2029. Hence, it’s unlikely that he will put it up for sale. However, if there is even a tiny chance, the Yankees would pounce on the opportunity. Brendan is a perfect trade piece. Till now, he is hitting .287 with 11 homers, 34 RBIs and .801 OPS. Also, Donovan would fit at the top order alongside Aaron Judge as he is better at getting to bases, and the strikeout rate is relatively low.
3. Jeimer Candelario – Washington Nationals
Third baseman/first baseman Jeimer Candelario seems more of a rental trade piece. The third base has been a problem since Josh Donaldson is out with a season-ending injury. While Oswald Peraza is keeping guard for now, the Yanks could use a more viable solution. Candelaria is a switch hitter who is hitting .257 with 16 homers, 50 RBIs, and .821 OPS. Also, the Nationals are out of the playoff race, which could prompt them to sell.
4. Lane Thomas – Washington Nationals
Outfielder Lane Thomas is another candidate from the Nationals. While Thomas is having a breakout season, the Nationals baseball operation president is willing to consider offers. He is hitting .293 with 16 homers, 54 RBIs, and .830 OPS. However, owing to his current form, the Nationals might keep a high price tag. The Yankee must negotiate properly and stay vigilant.
5. Dylan Carlson – St.Louis Cardinals
Outfielder Dylan Carlson is a tricky candidate. While his numbers aren’t too strong for the season, he could potentially become a potentially low-price high-risk candidate for the Yankees. The things that work in his favor are his switch-hitting abilities and potent defensive skills. Overall, even without impressive numbers, Dylan is somebody the Yanks could actively consider during the trade deadline.
6. Tommy Pham – New York Mets
Outfielder Tommy Pham is having a good season with the Mets offensively. However, the Mets have been a disappointment this season as they stand seven games out of the playoff wild card spot. Hence, they will actively sell. Pham is someone who would gel well with the Yankees. His on-base percentage is relatively high, while the average is low. Hence, Tommy Pham remains an ideal trade candidate for the Bombers.
7. Randal Grichuk – Colorado Rockies
Outfielder Randal Grichuk has been highly productive this season. As the Rockies season is nearing an end, Randal could be put up for sale. Grichuk is someone who will end the team’s left-field woes. Also, he would be a low-price, high-risk player, which the Yankees can afford at the moment. Hence, Randal Grichuk is someone the Yanks should go after at the trade deadline.
8. Elias Diaz – Colorado Rockies
Catcher Elias Diaz is someone who could interest the Yankees as they are low on catching depth. Since Jose Trevino is out for the rest of the season, the team would explore options. He is hitting better at .264 with 10 homers, 46 RBIs, and .738 OPS. Elias could be rental for now as the Yanks have Trevino, and Higashioka locked him for a few more seasons. Overall, Diaz would also be a low-price, high-risk optimal option for the Yanks.
