The New York Yankees were anticipated to be aggressive buyers at the mid-season trade deadline due to roster gaps hindering its postseason aspirations. While the front office orchestrated Jazz Chisholm Jr’s trade by sending three prospects to Miami Marlins, a couple of pitching moves could still be on the cards.
Notably, the New York Yankees had enlisted 10 closers as potential trade targets. Moreover, besides relief arms, the team could also use an upgrade in the starting rotation as its lacking depth due to injuries. However, in a sudden change of events, the Yanks have apparently put left hander Nestor Cortes on the trade block.
Nestor Cortes Confident That Yankees Want Him To Stay!
In a startling revelation, MLB insider Jon Heyman reported that New York Yankees starting pitcher Nestor Cortes has appeared on the trade block as his name is being floated around the market. Apparently, the Yanks plan on using him as a trade cheap to finalize a significant trade move. Bob Nightengale further added fuel to the rumors by stating that the Yanks have intensified negotiations with the Tigers to acquire Jack Flaherty. And if Flaherty gets moved, the Bombers could offer Cortes in exchange. Notably, following Bob’s tweet, Flaherty’s scheduled start on Monday was scratched, thus further hinting at a potential move. It’s also important to note that Cortes was linked in a trade involving Tommy Edman. But LA Dodgers materialsed the trade on Monday.
That being said, Nestor Cortes broke his silence on the raging trade rumors and revealed that he is aware of the buzz that exists on Twitter. While his agent informed him of the online speculations, the Cuban pitcher has yet to have a word with general manager Brian Cashman to seek clarity on his future. It’s because Cortes firmly believes the New York Yankees want him enough to stay. Not only that, the left-hander added that he wants to stay with the team as he has a special connection with the organization. “It’s a winning team. It’s a team that I got drafted by and given me many opportunities,” Crotes said. Regardless, the pitcher is aware of where he stands and vowed to continue fighting every minute and hour before the deadline expires. “I’m still fighting and trying to claw my way up to being a proven starter and winning for this team,” Cortes added.
Giants Reject Yanks Blake Snell Request
Interestingly, the New York Yankees were also one of the six teams that enquired about two-time CY Young pitcher Blake Snell. However, San Francisco Giants is unlikely to move Snell due to complex contract terms. Notably, Snell signed a $62 million two year deal after failing to land a desired long term safety.
If Giants move him at the trade deadline, they will be liable to pay $25 million in 2025 club option to Blake Snell. While Snell has battled injuries for most half of the season, he is still an acclaimed veteran pitcher in major league. Hence, for now, the Yankees will have to look for other alternatives as Snell pursuit is unlikely to materalise.
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