There hasn’t been much noise from the New York Yankees front office yet, but this might be the first ripple they are gearing up for the trade deadline.
According to New York Post columnist Jon Heyman, the Yankees have checked in with the Colorado Rockies about third baseman Ryan McMahon. The veteran may not be a blockbuster move, but could represent a practical, if unsexy, deadline move.
Among the other names, Heymon connected the Yankees to are the usual third base trade-rumor subjects. He also reported that the Yankees have not contacted the Diamondbacks about Eugenio Suarez yet, likely because they don't believe Arizona is selling.
The Rockies are reportedly willing to listen. And that alone is rare enough to raise an eyebrow. Colorado has long been one of the league’s most trade-averse organizations, known more for standing pat than making moves.
But being one of the worst teams in baseball history would motivate anyone to sell.
McMahon is playing well. He has an .828 OPS since May 1 after a miserable start to the year. He’s also signed to a reasonable deal: about $37 million through 2027. That’s not a rental, but it’s also not a financial anchor.
And the Yankees need help at third base.
It’s not clear how serious the conversations were. But it’s a sign the front office is starting to probe the market, looking beyond big names to functional upgrades. McMahon also brings solid defense and the ability to play second base, which could matter, depending on what happens with Jazz Chisholm Jr. and DJ LeMahieu over the next few weeks.
It’s early, but this might be the first public clue they’re finally getting to work.
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