New York Yankees Linked to These 2 Impact Bats Ahead of Trade Deadline
The New York Yankees' offense is in serious trouble without superstar outfielder Aaron Judge, who is out indefinitely with a toe injury.
That is why they're going to need to acquire a bat or two at the trade deadline to help boost their lineup.
In a recent article written by MLB.com insider Mark Feinsand, the Yankees were linked to two hitters, who are expected to be on the trading block.
First up was former National League MVP winner Cody Bellinger.
"Bellinger was red-hot during the final two weeks of the first half, posting a 1.114 OPS and a .449/.482/.633 slash line in 13 games. Playing on a one-year, $12.5 million contract with a $25 million mutual option for 2024 ($5 million buyout), Bellinger seems like a lock to hit the free-agent market, making him a prime trade candidate if the Cubs decide to sell," Feinsand wrote.
Bellinger, who has the ability to play all three outfield spots, is the perfect fit for the Yankees both offensively and defensively. He provides much-needed left-handed pop to the lineup and can slide into a corner outfield spot.
Beyond Bellinger, Feinsand also listed third baseman Jeimer Candelario as a fit for the Yankees.
"Candelario has thrived at the plate over the past month, posting a .981 OPS with five home runs and an impressive .309/.364/.617 slash line in 21 games dating back to June 16. The 29-year-old signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Nationals prior to the season, so he’s an affordable expiring contract for clubs seeking help at the hot corner," Feinsand wrote.
The Yankees basically have two third basemen in Josh Donaldson and DJ LeMahieu. But the issue is that neither has produced this season, and the Yankees could use an upgrade at the hot corner. That is where Candelario comes in; an inexpensive solution that is a switch-hitter and can help bring more balance to the Yankee lineup.
Now, if the Yankees added one of Bellinger or Candelario it would certainly help their offense. But if general manager Brian Cashman wants to seriously contend, he'd acquire both players, making the offense look like a force when Judge returns.
However, time is running out. The Yankees dropped to last-place in the American League East after a loss to the Colorado Rockies to open up the second half of the season on Friday night. They're also two games out of the final two Wild Card spots in the AL. That said, if their bats wake up, or the offense receives help via trade, the Yankees could go on a run down the stretch of the season.
