Jul 4, 2023; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees center fielder Harrison Bader (22) reacts after hitting a two RBI double against the Baltimore Orioles during the seventh inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Baltimore Orioles at New York Yankees
(Bronx, New York) — The MLB trade deadline is rapidly approaching and the Yankees have difficult decisions to make ahead of August 1st.
New York should be in ‘Buy’ mode after winning four of their last five, moving them within two-and-a-half games out of the final American League Wild Card spot.
Aaron Judge’s return to the lineup Friday against the Baltimore Orioles creates an even bigger incentive to make a push.
MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reports that two Yankee players have solid trade value to aid in completing deals at the deadline.
“As for the Yankees, they are said to be looking for help at catcher, left field, the rotation, and the bullpen, but of the team’s expiring contracts – Luis Severino, Frankie Montas, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Harrison Bader, and Wandy Peralta – only Bader and Peralta figure to have much trade value.”
Harrison Bader and Wandy Peralta have been solid contributors for the club this season. Bader has slashed .259/.289/.432 in addition to seven home runs and 32 RBIs, while providing elite defense in center field.
As for Peralta – he’s been a reliable bullpen arm pitching to a 2.37 ERA and 30 strikeouts in 38 innings.
The Yankees have been rumored to have their eyes on Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger and St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jack Flaherty.
Bader and Peralta could very well end up being the pivotal piece in getting a deal done.
