The MLB trade deadline for the 2023 season is less than a week away. The teams around the American and National League are still evaluating their roster needs. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees are still in a fix. While they definitely need some fresh faces in the camp, the unwillingness to part ways with the well-built farm system remains a persistent roadblock.
As of this writing, the New York Yankees remain in sole possession of the bottom place of the AL-East table. The team sits three places behind the playoff wildcard spot. Undoubtedly, the current roster is extremely talented. However, unfortunate injuries and inconsistency have marred their World Series campaign so far. With a crucial trade deadline approaching, the Yanks seemed to have finally made up their mind on their stance.
Yankees Looking To Buy At Trade Deadline Actively, Claims MLB Reporter
The New York Yankees are in desperate need of increasing their roster depth due to incessant injury concerns. Hence, the team was expected to be active buyers during the forthcoming August 1 trade deadline. However, with the recent success against the Royals, rumors flared up that the Yanks might sell or do both buy and sell. Hence, due to changing dynamics and circumstances, the Bombers’ office chose to wait till the deadline approached to reveal their firm trade stance. Amid these rumors, a well-known MLB writer has claimed that the Yankees will most likely buy at the deadline, provided the team doesn’t fall back over the next few days.
As per Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the New York Yankees will be looking to add a couple of pieces at the trade deadline, particularly an outfielder and a relief pitcher. The team surely feels the need for an additional outfielder in the wake of Aaron Judge’s injury. Moreover, even if Judge returns, the left field’s door is still revolving. Hence, targets like Cody Bellinger and Randal Grichuk would perfectly fit into the roster. Speaking of relief pitching options, Cubs pitcher Marcus Stroman and San Diego Padres ace Blake Snell are some names floating around in the market. Overall, the ball is in the Yankees’ court. The front office will need to evaluate their roster needs carefully and also the exchange price.
Yanks Not Targeting A Catcher At Trade Deadline Despite Lack Of Depth
The New York Yankees catching depth has shrunk ever since Jose Trevino went down with a season-ending injury. Trevino’s underlying wrist injury became worse over time, and it has reached a point where surgery was the only way out. Hence, the catcher is ruled out for the rest of the 2023 MLB season. Due to the loss of Trevino, rumors flared up that the Yanks might target a catcher at the trade deadline.
However, as per various media reports, the Yankees have no interest in a catcher for now. The team already has enough depth in the minor league. For now, Ben Rortvedt is splitting time with Kyle Higashioka on the main roster. Moreover, Austin Wells is also raking the minor league with a thumping performance. Hence, he is also in line for a promotion. Overall, the Bronx Bombers do not feel the need for a catcher, at least for this season.
