As the MLB summer trade looms closer, speculation surrounding potential moves by the New York Yankees, frequently at the center of trade talks, is heating up. One prominent player reportedly on their target is Oakland Athletics pitcher Mason Miller.
According to SNY’s Andy Martino, the New York Yankees have expressed interest in the Athletics’ high-impact reliever, despite the anticipated steep asking price due to Mason Miller’s team control extending through 2029. Martino’s report indicates that the Yankees initiated preliminary discussions with Oakland regarding the rising MLB relief star, but talks have not progressed significantly since then.
“It’s a poorly kept secret around the team that the Yankees are eyeing (Luis Gil) as a candidate to become a potential power reliever in the postseason,” the insider said. “This is a type of pitcher that they badly need (by the way, the Yankees had a preliminary check-in with Oakland about closer Mason Miller, according to a source, but that was a while ago and talks haven’t progressed; it remains hard to see Brian Cashman paying an astronomical price for a reliever).”
However, he suggested that Yankees’ GM Brian Cashman might be wary of the substantial cost associated with acquiring a pitcher like Mason Miller.
Known for his impressive fastball and standout performances this season, the young right-hander has captured the attention of contenders like the Yankees.
With the deadline looming, the Yankees’ front office faces crucial decisions, balancing immediate needs with long-term objectives as they aim to strengthen the team for a potential postseason push.
Pairing Mason Miller with current Yankees closer Clay Holmes could potentially fortify the bullpen, with him potentially assuming the closer role as early as 2025. However, such a trade would likely necessitate the Yankees parting ways with multiple top prospects.
Can the Yankees acquire Mason Miller?
While the prospect of a deal remains uncertain, Martino’s report underscores that the Yankees are actively exploring avenues to enhance their bullpen. The developments surrounding Mason Miller will undoubtedly be closely monitored as the trade deadline approaches.
Mason Miller, a standout at just 25 years old, has garnered attention in Major League Baseball this season for his exceptional performance on the mound. Miller boasts a remarkable 2.08 ERA, a stellar 0.81 WHIP, and an impressive 46.5% strikeout rate against opposing hitters.
Adding to Mason Miller’s allure is his contract situation, as he remains under team control through the 2029 season without arbitration eligibility until 2026.
Statistically, Mason Miller distinguishes himself among qualified pitchers, notably as the sole pitcher in the top 20 with an expected batting average against (xBA) lower than his actual batting average against (BAA). The .031 difference between these metrics sets him apart, unmatched by any pitcher in the top 100.
While Mason Miller’s walk rate of 10.1% (placing him in the 25th percentile among pitchers) raises some minor concerns, it is overshadowed by his elite performance in numerous other metrics. He ranks in the 100th percentile in six different categories on Baseball Savant, including fastball velocity, expected ERA (1.51), whiff percentage, and chase rate.
As the MLB trade deadline nears, speculation swirls around Oakland Athletics closer Mason Miller. The 25-year-old pitcher has shone brightly despite his team’s struggles, boasting impressive stats such as a 2.08 ERA, 0.81 WHIP, and 60 strikeouts in 34.2 innings this season.
Despite Mason Miller’s standout performance and the Athletics’ challenging 29-52 record, deciding whether to trade him is a nuanced dilemma for Oakland. His extended team control adds significant value, complicating potential trade discussions.
Interest in Mason Miller spans across several teams, with the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles, and Philadelphia Phillies among those reportedly eyeing him. Surprisingly, even smaller market teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates and Washington Nationals are rumored to be potential suitors.
An anonymous source cited in The Athletic indicated that the Athletics are poised to set a steep asking price for Mason Miller. The source noted that given the pitcher’s contractual situation and the scarcity of comparable star players available, any trade offer would need to be notably compelling to sway Oakland.
This scenario underscores the intricate considerations the Yankees confront when evaluating trades involving young, high-achieving players under long-term team control.
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Again, a check in with a rumored traded target, but nothing what either team is willing to trade or what is being asked for. Like, who Cashman isn’t willing to give up or who the A’s must have in any deal.