New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told the media that the team could easily stay put at the trade deadline noting that he was not willing to give up a lot for a little. The Yankees have no interest in making trades for season rentals which is a majority of the players available at the moment. Cashman is hesitant to give up prospects for a player that is only going to be around for a part of the year. However, there are a few options the Yankees could make moves for that would stay for at least another season.
According to the New York Post, the Yankees have been eyeing several closers to beef up their bullpen for the run to the playoffs. The Yankees are sitting in first place at the moment and would like to keep things that way. Despite ESPN's Buster Olney reporting that Craig Kimbrel is a potential target, New York is showing no interest in his high-priced salary. However, Aroldis Chapman could fit all of the needs for the team.
David Schoenfield of ESPN is reporting that the Yankees are plausible candidate for Chapman as they aim to add one more player to the Andrew Miller, Dellin Betances duo. Chapman is not a free agent until after the 2016 season. A trade for the closer would mean New York can keep a three-headed monster bullpen for at least two seasons making the trade worth it in the long run. Chapman is an ace that would give the Yankees an edge for the playoffs. The Yankees would officially have three guys that can go multiple innings if need be while potentially shortening the game with their dominance.
The Cincinnati Reds are being sellers at the deadline. FOX Sports has reported that both Johnny Cueto and Mike Leake are available since they likely will not re-sign with the team in the offseason. The Yankees are not looking for pitchers like that. The asking price for Chapman might be cheaper than deals for Cueto and Leake while giving New York the x-factor the need.
According to ESPN.com, the Yankees have sent scouts to watch Cole Hamels pitch before the trade deadline. Hamels would not be a season rental considering the length of his contract. The Yankees have shown interest in Hamels before and the need has presented itself once again. CC Sabathia is inconsistent while Ivan Nova appears headed for some injury time. Joe Girardi has downplayed the struggles of both pitchers. If Philadelphia gets desperate they could lower the price on Hamels and the Yankees are expected to pounce.
