All-Star Catcher Reportedly Available; Yankees Could Make Big Move To Bolster Position

New York could make a move for a former All-Star catcher

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago White Sox are in full firesale mode.

Chicago has mightily underachieved this season and is one of the biggest sellers ahead of the 2023 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline. The White Sox already have made a few moves -- including dealing away pitchers Lucas Giolito and Lance Lynn -- but more trades are coming shortly. The trade deadline is set to pass on August 1 and another member of the White Sox who could find himself playing elsewhere shortly reportedly is catcher Yasmani Grandal, according to USA Today Sports' Bob Nightengale. 

"The Chicago White Sox are telling teams that ace Dylan Cease and left-handed reliever Aaron Bummer are off limits, but they would be willing to trade reliever Keynan Middleton," Nightengale said. "They would listen for offers for shortstop Tim Anderson and will give away catcher Yasmani Grandal."

If Chicago actually deals the two-time All-Star, the New York Yankees would make perfect sense as a trade partner. New York recently lost catcher Jose Trevino to a wrist injury and could be in the market for a new backstop. The Yankees need more offensive firepower and Grandal could help provide just that. The 34-year-old has been solid so far this season for the White Sox slashing .251/.317/.382 to go along with eight home runs and 29 RBIs in 87 games. 

The Yankees are rumored to be buyers ahead of the trade deadline but have missed out on some big names who already have been moved. New York was linked to Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger but he has been taken off the market. The Yankees will need to act fast to get a deal done and maybe Grandal could be the piece the club needs to gain some ground in the Wild Card standings.