Yankees Deadline Strategy Changing as Market Tightens Ex-GM Says

The New York Yankees may not be planning the trade deadline moves that have long been speculated. While they came into the season needing a third baseman and continue to need one, that is not their highest priority anymore, according to executive around the league. 

On Monday’s edition of Power Alley on SiriusXM, former Mets GM Jim Duquette said the Yankees plans have shifted. After speaking with MLB executives who have talked to the Yankees over the past week, Duquette said, “All I heard was pitching.”

According to Duquette, the Yankees are prioritizing a starting pitcher and a reliever as its top two needs heading into the final days before the trade deadline. A third baseman? That’s now third on their internal wish list.

And based on the state of their pitching staff, it’s not hard to understand why.

Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt are both out for the year. Luis Gil is still at least a week away from returning. Ryan Yarbrough is on the injured list. Cam Schlittler made his debut, but is now dealing with biceps soreness. Even top external targets like Max Fried are dealing with issues—he’s nursing a blister.

In the bullpen, it’s just as dicey. Jonathan Loaisiga has looked unsteady. Luke Weaver has struggled in leverage. Devin Williams has improved, but hasn’t fully regained trust. Cruz and Mark Leiter Jr. are both injured. The Yankees are short on arms and shorter on options.

Back to third base.

Duquette said most execs no longer believe Eugenio Suarez will be available. The Diamondbacks appear hesitant to sell, and Suarez, who’s hit 33 home runs this season, may now be too valuable to move.

He also shut down one of the Yankees’ more rumored options, saying they are “out” on Ryan McMahon of the Rockies. The Yankees have never been that interested in St. Louis’ third baseman Nolan Arenado with his aging bat and heavy contract burden. 

So what’s left?

According to Duquette, the Yankees could pivot toward a low-level move for Baltimore’s Ramon Urias. He’s a versatile infielder who’s fallen out of favor with the Orioles, and could offer depth.

But he’s not the impact bat fans were hoping for.

The Yankees aren’t shopping for luxury right now. They’re trying to hold the roster togetherand if any upgrade comes at third base, it will likely be secondary to finding arms that can get them through the next two months.