Ahead of the trade deadline, the New York Yankees have emerged as potential suitors for two impact bats that could bolster their lineup. The absence of their star outfielder Aaron Judge, who is currently sidelined with a toe injury, has left a significant void in the team’s offense.
According to a recent article by MLB.com insider Mark Feinsand, the Yankees have been linked to two hitters who are expected to be available for trade. The first player of interest is Cody Bellinger, a former National League MVP winner.
Bellinger showcased impressive form during the final two weeks of the first half of the season, boasting a stellar 1.114 OPS and an outstanding .449/.482/.633 slash line in 13 games. With Bellinger playing under a one-year, $12.5 million contract, featuring a $25 million mutual option for 2024 (with a $5 million buyout), it appears likely that he will hit the free-agent market. As a result, he becomes an attractive trade candidate should the Cubs decide to sell.
Bellinger’s versatility as an outfielder, capable of playing all three positions, makes him an ideal fit for the Yankees, both offensively and defensively. His left-handed power would provide a much-needed boost to the lineup, and he could easily slide into a corner outfield spot.
Additionally, Feinsand identified third baseman Jeimer Candelario as another player who could address the Yankees’ offensive needs.
Candelario has excelled at the plate in recent weeks, amassing a remarkable .981 OPS with five home runs and an impressive .309/.364/.617 slash line in 21 games since June 16. The 29-year-old signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Nationals before the season, making him an affordable option for teams seeking help at the hot corner.
Although the Yankees currently have two third basemen in Josh Donaldson and DJ LeMahieu, neither player has performed up to expectations this season. Consequently, the Yankees could benefit from an upgrade at the hot corner, and Candelario presents an inexpensive solution as a switch-hitter who could add balance to the team’s lineup.
While acquiring either Bellinger or Candelario would undoubtedly improve the Yankees’ offense, if General Manager Brian Cashman wants to make a serious push for contention, acquiring players would create a formidable lineup upon Judge’s return.
However, time is running out as the Yankees find themselves in last place in the American League East after a recent loss to the Colorado Rockies to start the second half of the season. They trail by two games for the final two Wild Card spots in the AL. Nevertheless, with a resurgence from their hitters or potential offensive reinforcements via trades, the Yankees could make a strong push in the remaining games of the season.
Impact bars to take care of Cashman and Steinbrenner. Knock some sense into them. 😵💫😳🤦🏻🤣🤪
What’s the point 🤷🏻this season is over unless the rest of the league collapses. Is Belli the answer for next year? He had 2 good weeks before the All Star break. This team is so flawed that major changes are needed or miraculous improvements starting yesterday 👎🏻 🤦🏻
Yankees need to ride it out with the young guns, I would like to see what Peraza can do at shortstop. In the off-season get rid of the dead weight(Donaldson, Stanton, Severino) and position themselves to make a run for Soto.