Important Yankees Duo Reportedly Could Be Dealt Ahead Of Trade Deadline

What will the Yankees actually do ahead of the trade deadline?

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees likely will make a move or two ahead of the 2023 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline. 

New York has won four of its last five games after taking down the rival New York Mets on Wednesday night and is just two-and-a-half games out of the final American League Wild Card spot. The Yankees also got good news Wednesday as it was announced that star slugger Aaron Judge reportedly will return to the lineup Friday against the Baltimore Orioles. 

The Yankees are in a solid position and reportedly have decided to be buyers ahead of the trade deadline. Although this is the case, New York could offload some of its veterans as it looks to improve the club ahead of the August 1 trade deadline. Two players that reportedly have solid trade value are outfielder Harrison Bader and relief pitcher Wandy Peralta, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. 

"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."

Bader and Peralta have both been solid for the Yankees so far this season. In 52 games Bader has slashed .259/.289/.432 to go along with seven home runs and 32 RBIs. The 29-year-old also has added extremely solid defense out in center field. Peralta has made 45 appearances out of the New York bullpen and has compiled a 2.37 ERA. The lefty has struck out 30 batters in 38 innings. 

New York has been rumored to be in the market for a big splash like Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger or St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jack Flaherty so it wouldn't be too surprising to see the club deal either Bader or Peralta to get a deal done. The trade deadline is under a week away and New York likely will be one of the most active teams on the market.