MLB Insider Predicts New York Yankees Swing Trade For Star Pitcher
The New York Yankees have had an eventful offseason that has seen them land the likes of superstar outfielder Juan Soto, but they aren't satisfied with the work they have done.
According to SNY insider Andy Martino, "the Yankees are not quite satisfied with their offseason work to bolster their pitching staff."
For that, Martino is speculating that we might see the Yankees swing a trade for a pitcher during spring training.
The Yankees signed Marcus Stroman to a two-year, $37 million, but that move isn't enough to move the needle. They are also counting on a bounce-back season from the high-priced lefty Carlos Rodon. And Nestor Cortes is coming off an injury plagued campaign. Beyond AL Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole, there are still question marks in the Yankee rotation.
As for the bullpen, the Yankees lost two of their best relievers to the San Diego Padres in Michael King and Wandy Peralta. Clay Holmes is slated to remain as the team's closer, despite being better suited for a setup role. But the Yankees had the chance to go after superstar closer Josh Hader, but missed out to their hated rival Houston Astros.
The Yankees are getting Soto in his walk-year, which means there is no guarantee that he sticks around long-term. As a result, they needed to be more aggressive in upgrading their pitching staff and they haven't been. While they offered Cy Young winner Blake Snell a contract, it was far below his asking price, and now he has been ruled out as an option. It appears that their last option is making a trade to improve their staff before the regular season begins.