Trade buzz: Yankees contemplating deal for a pitcher from Chicago

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Charles Rex Arbogast/AP
Michael Bennington
Monday June 12, 2023

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According to ESPN, the Yankees are expected to actively seek pitching reinforcements, with potential interest in White Sox closer Liam Hendriks. The pitcher, who recently triumphed over Stage 4 lymphoma, was deeply moved by the kind gesture extended by the Yankees during the previous week when the team donated $10,000 to MSK Cancer Center in his honor.

At 34 years of age, Hendriks seeks the opportunity to play for a successful team. When he agreed to his three-year, $54 million contract with the White Sox ahead of the 2021 season, Chicago had recently experienced a playoff run, securing an AL Central title in that same year.

The Yankees are renowned for their propensity to make additions, and this summer appears to be no exception. However, the main question revolves around the specific targets they might pursue, which is currently difficult to ascertain. The starting rotation, which possesses immense potential, remains uncertain due to past, present, and future injuries. How Luis Severino progresses after returning from the injured list, whether Carlos Rodon will finally make his debut in Yankees pinstripes, and the significance of Nestor Cortes’ shoulder issue is all factors that will influence the team’s aggressiveness in seeking pitching reinforcements.

On the other hand, the bullpen has performed well, but there is a lack of a dominant closer, making it an area worth considering. While the possibility of acquiring Liam Hendriks from the White Sox exists if they become sellers, it is highly unlikely for Aroldis Chapman to be involved in any potential trade discussions.

Injury is a concern and Yankees may rethink

On Sunday, Liam Hendriks was placed on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his elbow. General Manager Rick Hahn stated that Hendriks’ current condition bears resemblance to a flexor strain that kept him out of play for a few weeks during the previous season. In his most recent four outings, Hendriks has maintained an impressive 2.25 ERA while recording a save and three strikeouts.

When the trade deadline rolls around on August 1st, the owner of the Mets in Queens, who happens to be a billionaire, may attempt to reduce his inflated payroll. However, if the Yankees can maintain their performance despite the absence of right fielder Aaron Judge, they are expected to actively participate in the annual MLB trade market, akin to a bustling garage sale.

Per Mark Feinsand of MILB.com’s report:

… considering the presence of several players with impending free agency or short-term contracts, such as Lucas Giolito, Yasmani Grandal, and Keynan Middleton, among others with 2024 options or expiring contracts in the next season like Lance Lynn, Tim Anderson, Kendall Graveman, Joe Kelly, Mike Clevinger, and Hendriks, the Chicago team possesses a significant number of players who could be traded if the postseason appears unlikely or if the belief in the team’s ability to contend in October diminishes.

Despite leading in multiple statistical categories, the Yankees’ bullpen lacks a definitive closer who can consistently secure victories.

What do you think? Leave your comment below.

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David Farr

I’m not sure the Yankees need another picture on the Dl.Holmes this past month has been very effective. I do think the Yankees could use another reliever. Their secondary relievers have been ineffective lately. I would the Yankees to get Lucas Giolito. Another deflect hitter would also be helpful.

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