The New York Yankees’ struggles in 2023 have been perplexing, considering their reputation as one of baseball’s most storied franchises. With a mix of high-priced veteran talent and promising young players, the team has failed to establish a cohesive identity on the field. Injuries, underperforming stars, and inconsistent pitching have all contributed to the team’s middling performance.
Hence, the New York Yankees could seek solutions at the upcoming trade deadline. The club’s general manager, Brian Cashman, remains under a lot of pressure as his initial roster decision during the off-season have badly backfired on the team. Having said that, it would be interesting to see what approach the Bronx Bombers adopt at the deadline on Tuesday.
Brian Cashman Could Adopt A Mixed Approach At Trade Deadline
As the 2023 MLB trade deadline approaches, the New York Yankees find themselves at a crossroads. General Manager Brian Cashman faces a challenging decision, as the team lacks a clear identity and struggles to find consistency on the field. In such a situation, Cashman could opt to both buy and sell at the trade deadline to address the team’s needs and set a foundation for the future. As per an MLB executive, Cashman has enquired about a lot of scenarios. Moreover, the GM’s moves suggest that the team might buy and sell simultaneously on Tuesday. Further, as per Joel Sherman of the New York Post, Yanks owner Hal Steinbrenner will not authorize selling as he still sees a lot of potential in the current roster.
As per early trends, the Yankees will engage in buying only if they find a long-term solution in left field and third base. These two areas are the major shortcomings in the roster so far. In exchange, the Bombers could use impending agents like Harrison Bader, Ron Marinaccio, and Jonathan Loaisiga as trade chips. On the other hand, as far as selling is concerned, the team has received offers for infielder Gleyber Torres. Marlins have shown strong interest in Torres. But Yanks has reportedly kept a ridiculous price tag which might become a roadblock. Overall, by adopting a dual strategy of buying to address immediate needs and selling to secure the team’s future, Cashman can position the Yankees for success both in the short term and in the years ahead.
Yankees’ Top Trade Target Goes Off The Market
Meanwhile, in a huge setback to the Yankees, the Cubs have decided to take Cody Bellinger off the trade market. On Sunday, Chicago Cubs recorded their eighth straight win, which landed them three games below the playoff wildcard spot. Hence, to remain in the playoff race, Cubs have started to tell teams that they are unwilling to offer Bellinger in a trade, according to ESPN.
Chicago Cubs earlier were thinking of selling. But the recent resurgence forced them to rethink. Cody Bellinger looked like a perfect trade option for the Yankees. A left-field outfielder and left-handed slugger is hitting .315 with 15 homers, 46 RBIs, and .908 OPS this season. Certainly, the Bronx Bombers would be highly gutted by the Cubs call. Nevertheless, with two days to go, the Yanks still have time to explore the market.
