Brian Cashman, the longtime general manager of the New York Yankees, has often been a lightning rod for criticism, especially as the team endured a World Series drought since 2009. However, with the Bronx Bombers finally securing their long-awaited return to the Fall Classic in 2024, it’s time to give credit where it’s due.
Cashman has made several impactful trades that, while not always appreciated at the moment, have played significant roles in getting the Yanks back to the pinnacle of baseball. Here are three trades finalized by the GM that deserve more recognition after the Bombers’ 2024 World Series berth.
Mark Leiter Jr From Chicago Cubs (2024)
Brian Cashman’s mid-season acquisition of Mark Leiter Jr. from the Chicago Cubs initially looked like a misstep. Leiter posted a 4.98 ERA in limited regular-season appearances and was left off the roster for both the ALDS and the early part of the ALCS. However, when Ian Hamilton got injured with a calf strain, Leiter was called upon in Games 4 and 5 of the ALCS.
And despite his inconsistent regular season, he stepped up when it mattered most. His 2.1 innings of work in critical situations helped the New York Yankees secure their spot in the World Series. While not a marquee trade, this deal demonstrates Cashman’s ability to find unexpected contributors when needed.
Gleyber Torres From Chicago Cubs (2016)
A significant trade that sent Aroldis Chapman to the Chicago Cubs in 2016 and brought Gleyber Torres to New York is one of Brian Cashman’s best moves. While Torres has had an up-and-down career, his 2024 resurgence has been pivotal. After being moved to the leadoff spot in August, Torres has become a key table-setter for the Yankees’ power hitters, with his strong playoff performance helping propel the team through the ALCS.
Torres has proven that Cashman’s patience in holding onto him, despite trade rumors and struggles, was the right move. His plate discipline and improved defense make him an essential part of the offensive lineup. While his future beyond 2024 is uncertain, Torres has certainly been impactful in the past eight years.
Giancarlo Stanton From Miami Marlins (2017)
A highly anticipated trade for former NL MVP Giancarlo Stanton came with immense fanfare but quickly turned sour as Stanton struggled with injuries and inconsistent play. However, Stanton has always had a flair for the dramatic, especially in the postseason, and 2024 has been no different. His five home runs and 11 RBI in nine playoff games have been instrumental in the Yankees’ playoff success, earning him the ALCS MVP.
Stanton’s clutch performances, including his game-changing homers in Games 4 and 5 of the ALCS, have silenced critics and cemented his place as a playoff hero. Despite Cashman’s own concerns about Stanton’s health, today, he must surely be proud of his decision as the Yankees stand on the cusp of its 28th World Series title.
In conclusion, while Brian Cashman has faced his share of scrutiny, these trades are a testament to his ability to build a roster capable of reaching the World Series.
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