The New York Yankees are apparently panicking despite losing three series on the trot. However, entering the second half of the tournament, the Bombers have one troubling area they need to address, which is the bullpen.
With Clay Holmes struggling after a 20-game scoreless stretch and injuries taking over, the New York Yankees has fallen fifth in MLB’s lowest bullpen ERA list with a 3.39 ERA. Meanwhile, here are five trade options the Yanks can consider to bolster their bullpen depth.
1. John King
The New York Yankees bullpen is led by Clay Holmes followed by Michael Tonkin and Caleb Ferguson. However, only 2 off the 8 relievers in the bullpen are healthy and hence, the front office must go after John King to strike a balance. King has maintained a 2.39 ERA with 22 strikeouts in 26.1 innings so far this season with the Cardinals. Moreover, in the midst of a woeful season, the Cardinals are likely to put John King up for sale.
2. Carlos Estevez
Los Angeles Angels right-handed relief pitcher Carlos Estevez is a perfect backup for Clay Holmes. The 2023 season All-Star and impending free agent has a 3.38 ERA in 24 innings so far with 14 saves. He has a fine ability to close out games for the Yankees, and since Holmes is having a tough time maintaining consistency, Carlos can come in handy. Moreover, with the Angels lagging 13 games in AL-West, Estevez would be a rather cheaper trade alternative for the cash-strapped Yankees.
3. Ryan Pressly
Ryan Pressly, a two-time All-Star closer and former World Champion, is likely to be put up for sale by the Houston Astros. Pressly has an impressive postseason record. But with Josh Hader’s entry, the relief pitcher has been forced into the sidelines. Also, the Astros are showing signs of falling out of the wild card race. And that could force them to sell before the trade deadline. Hence, the Astro’s agony can be a blessing for the Yankees if they choose to go after Pressly.
4. Michael Kopech
Chicago White Sox are expected to be the biggest sellers this year with a 21-59 record in AL-Central. Michael Kopech hasn’t had a great year, as he registered five saves in 17 games and also allowed 16 earned runs in total. Kopech was later moved from the starting rotation to the bullpen, where he has been steady so far. However, despite abysmal numbers, the Yankees can squeeze in some clinical innings from him in the latter half of the season.
5. Tanner Scott
Miami Marlins reliever Tanner Scott is expected to be one of the most blockbuster trade chips of the season. In 33 innings, he pitched a 1.64 ERA with 35 strikeouts. With Scott hitting free agency next year, teams, including the New York Yankees, will throng Marlin’s phone lines to enquire about the in-form pitcher. Tanner Scott, out of all options, stands a realistic chance to take over Clay Holmes’ role of a closer. It will add more strength to the bullpen that no longer seems championship-worthy.
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