The Yankees have been trying to sign Luis Castillo for a number of years, and the Yankees and Dodgers are said to be better positioned to land the All-Star right-hander, who is probably the best starter out there. The Yankees have stated they will not part ways with any of the Reds’ top targets, Anthony Volpe or Oswald Peraza, and that is not about to change.
The Yankees’ need for a starter has arisen unexpectedly. The outfield and bullpen were top priority.
The Yankees and Dodgers are said to have the best systems among interested teams, but with such a tight market, Castillo will command a heavy price. Frankie Montas’ arm injury delayed his start to the weekend, potentially causing the market to shrink further. Castillo’s rotation partner Tyler Mahle is expected to return soon.
The Twins, Padres and Mets were among the first teams to compete in the Castillo derby, but the Padres and Mets are currently focused elsewhere.
Another name can be added to the mix. The competing teams believe Noah Syndergaard is being traded. Rangers still tend to buy rather than sell.
Though the Orioles were considered salespeople, their incredible hot streak might force them to wait. They could still trade a free agent like Trey Mancini, but it’s hard to imagine them trading Cedric Mullins, Anthony Santander, or Austin Hays right now.
Baltimore’s fortunes are looking good, and it doesn’t hurt that they have the first pick in the draft on Sunday. Drew Jones, Andrew’s son, and Jackson Holliday, Matt’s son, are considered the top two players. However, Baltimore says they are still considering five men. It’s a mystery when teams look for a deal.
The Padres, Brewers and Yankees have all expressed interest in Andrew Benintendi, but his current non-vaccination status will likely rule the Yankees out (they could play Toronto in the playoffs). The Yankees are also interested in Benintendi’s teammate Michael A. Taylor.The Dodgers have considered Whit Merrifield, whose 553-game streak was cut short by a big toe injury the day before it would have been called off, because he was suspended when the team traveled to Toronto. Merrifield handles day-to-day operations (although his immunization status may diminish his business value).
The royals won’t trade Zack Greinke unless he specifically requests it, which is unlikely given he recently bought a home in Kansas City.
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