As June approaches, the New York Yankees are in a strong position in the MLB standings, which gives the team optimism for its hopes of winning the World Series. Nonetheless, there are a few possible Yankees trade targets that might be sought this summer in an effort to increase the team’s chances.
Not all of New York’s needs are particularly great. The Yankees lineup is ranked in the top five in all major categories going into MLB games, and the pitching has been excellent as well. Having said that, a squad can always be strengthened for October as well as the regular season.
Now let’s explore our top summertime trade targets for the Yankees.
Los Angeles Angels third baseman Luis Reingifo
After so many injuries, DJ LeMahieu should be back in the Yankees lineup in June, but there’s no guarantee he can stay healthy. Even if he does, it’s unlikely that LeMahieu, who turns 36 in July, will continue to produce at this level. New York requires an excellent insurance program.
The answer lies with Luis Rengifo. Despite having 12 stolen bases and a 134 wRC+, the 27-year-old switch-hitter has been the only consistent player in the Los Angeles Angels lineup this season, slashing.308/.362/.462. Moreover, throughout the previous two seasons, Rengifo is accountable for a.793 OPS and 116 OPS+. Versatility is equally important to the Yankees because Rengifo can play corner outfield, shortstop, and second base. In addition, he has a contract that runs through 2025.
Colorado Rockies catcher Elias Diaz
When it comes to the MLB trade deadline, the Colorado Rockies are clear sellers. Regarding the Yankees, obtaining some major-league at-bats for Austin Wells may have some value, but it’s more expensive for a team that hopes to win the World Series. It becomes worse when you consider that if he starts in a postseason game, he might as well be an automatic out.
Elis Diaz may be a useful backup catcher with whom Jose Trevino could share time. Remember that Diaz is sixth in the league in Catch Framing Runs (2) this year, so it’s not like New York would be giving up everything on defense. Diaz has a slash line of.280/.326/.422 at the plate and a.747 OPS since the 2023 campaign. In the event that Diaz is acquired, Wells might receive regular at-bats in Triple-A.
Miami Marlins relief pitcher Tanner Scott
No matter how strong the bullpen is, Yankees trade targets will always include relievers. Tanner Scott, the closer for the Miami Marlins, would be a great acquisition as a left-handed alternative in the late innings or anytime he’s required in October. He would be a half-season rental.
Over the past two seasons, the 29-year-old reliever has been outstanding on the mound. Scott has a 2.18 ERA, a 126-42 K-BB ratio, a 1.08 WHI, and an 11.5 K/9 in his last 99 innings pitched. He is just as effective against right-handed hitters (.173/.328/.231) as he is left-handed hitters (.143/.333/.238). Although he’s not the most eye-catching name out there, he might be had for a very affordable price.
Ryan Helsley, relief pitcher, St. Louis Cardinals
Mason Miller, the closer for the Oakland Athletics, is undoubtedly more well-liked among Yankees trade targets. But because of his degree of contract control (until 2029), his price will be quite high. Remember that as a prospect, this hard-throwing pitcher had serious injury issues.
Ryan Helsley is under team control for the upcoming season and ought to be a more cost-effective choice. This season, the 29-year-old closer has struck out 28.9% of hitters he has faced, allowing opponents to bat just.190 while walking 4.8% of the time. These figures convert into a 1.23 ERA and a 0.86 WHP. Regarding his durability, Helsley has thrown 123.1 innings since the 2022 season, recording a 1.61 ERA, a.153 batting average against, and a 36.3 percent strikeout rate.
