Bullpen, not rotation, tops Yankees’ trade deadline priority, reveals insider

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NEW YORK — When Gerrit Cole was shut down in March, the 2025 season suddenly looked unstable for the New York Yankees. Pair that with Luis Gil’s early injury, and it seemed all but certain that general manager Brian Cashman would be forced to trade for starting pitching by the deadline.

But with July approaching, the narrative is shifting dramatically.

According to MLB Network analyst and longtime insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees may hold off on adding a starter this trade season. “

They don’t need starting pitching at the moment,” Heyman said Monday on MLB Network. “Obviously, things can change. But that’s a great position to be in.”

That’s not what anyone expected in April. But the Yankees’ rotation has quietly gone from crisis mode to cruise control — and it’s changing how the front office views the landscape.

Pitching staff emerges as unexpected strength

The Yankees currently lead the AL East at 45-33. Their starting rotation deserves significant credit for this success.

Carlos Rodon has bounced back spectacularly from his struggles in 2024. The left-hander is showing the velocity and precision that justified his expensive contract. Max Fried has delivered exactly what the front office hoped when they signed him. The veteran brings championship experience and consistent performance.

The real revelation has been Clarke Schmidt.

Schmidt is riding a 25⅓-inning scoreless streak that has elevated his season numbers dramatically. He’s evolved from rotation depth to genuine No. 3 starter material.

Gil’s return adds another dimension to consider. The AL Rookie of the Year winner is working back from a lat strain that cost him nearly three months. Team manager Aaron Boone view his comeback as an alternative to a major trade acquisition.

“Obviously, what he could bring, would definitely be a good shot in the arm and maybe one of those trade deadline adds,” the Yankees manager told.

A healthy Gil could be a difference-maker in October. That’s a huge addition, and it doesn’t cost them any prospects.

Limited starting pitching market a factor

External market conditions also favor the Yankees’ current stance. The 2025 deadline market lacks quality starting pitchers. Teams like Chicago and Colorado may keep their top arms unless they receive overwhelming offers. Heyman highlighted this scarcity factor.

“There may not be many starting pitchers out there at the deadline. That’s also part of the equation.”

Cashman has historically avoided overpaying for deadline starters when prices spike. With solid internal options and a depleted farm system, the Yankees are unlikely to chase expensive names that don’t significantly improve their championship odds.

Relief pitching becomes Yankees’ focus

The Yankees are redirecting their attention toward bullpen improvements. Despite ranking eighth in MLB with a 3.46 bullpen ERA, New York wants upgrades for high-pressure situations.

“The bullpen is pretty good,” Heyman said, “but that is where their emphasis is going to be.”

Several relievers have caught the Yankees’ attention. Cleveland’s Emmanuel Clase represents a premium target if available. Ryan Helsley from St. Louis could become accessible if the Cardinals sell. Twins’ Jhoan Duran, Felix Bautista of the Baltimore Orioles, Angels’ Reid Detmers, and Tampa’s Pete Fairbanks are among other options.

The bullpen interest makes sense given current personnel questions. Ian Hamilton has struggled with consistency. Deven Willaims continues to be unreliable. Adding reliable arms would strengthen the bridge to closer Luke Weaver.

Measured moves expected at deadline

Any Yankees trades will likely emphasize strategy over headlines. Beyond pitching help, the club might pursue a right-handed hitter or third base depth. Eugenio Suarez from Arizona has generated interest. Colorado’s Ryan McMahon could address the needs if second-half injuries or slumps develop.

Team officials suggest restraint will guide their approach. “They may still make a move or two,” a front office source said, “but it will be more about shoring up depth than headline-making trades.”

Cashman acknowledged in March that early-season pitching markets typically offer limited value. He preferred avoiding long-term sacrifices for short-term fixes. That philosophy remains unchanged.

Internal depth provides confidence

The Yankees’ comfort level reflects growing trust in their player development system.

Should injuries strike, prospects like Will Warren, Ben Hess, and Cade Smith are viewed as viable major-league options. This organizational depth, combined with strong performances from Fried, Rodon, and Schmidt, allows the Yankees to maintain their current course.

This represents a dramatic shift from expectations. Many predicted the Yankees would desperately seek starting pitching by July. Instead, they’re shopping for late-inning help and roster flexibility.

Strategic patience halts aggressive pursuit

The Yankees may avoid generating major deadline headlines this year. That’s intentional.

Previous seasons saw New York aggressively chase big names out of necessity and pressure. The 2025 calculation differs significantly. Their rotation is performing well. Key players are producing. The front office appears focused on refinements rather than major overhauls.

Heyman summarized the situation perfectly: “You always want to be aggressive. But you also have to be smart. And the Yankees, right now, are in a pretty smart spot.”

With Cole sidelined, Gil returning, and the remaining starters exceeding expectations, the Yankees are trusting their existing talent. It’s a calculated risk that could prove crucial come October.

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