Yankees Could Land Superstar Hurler In Blockbuster Trade To Bolster Rotation

Could New York land one of the best pitchers in baseball soon?

The New York Yankees already have improved the starting rotation but more help could be on the way.

New York landed two-time All-Star Marcus Stroman in free agency but has been linked to other hurlers as well. The Yankees were mentioned as a fit for two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell, but it doesn't sound like a signing is a possibility anymore.

While the Yankees may be done adding this offseason, the club may look to bolster the rotation with a trade in the not-so-distant future.

One player who could be an option is Milwaukee Brewers ace Corbin Burnes, according to NJ.com's Bob Klapisch.

"Marcus Stroman is potentially a big help for (Gerrit Cole), but the $37 million Stroman is pulling down for the next two seasons shut the door on (Blake Snell)," Klapisch said. "But it could forge a path to Plan B — Brewers’ ace Corbin Burnes. It’s not impossible if you consider the Yankees had at least $25 million per year earmarked for Snell. That figure would’ve likely increased to $28 million had Snell and Boras comprised...

"Burnes is eligible for free agency after this season. He’s fully intending to test the market. The Brewers could, if they’re struggling in the (National League) Central, theoretically cut their losses before Burnes moves on in November. There’s more: Burnes will make $15.6 million this year. The Yankees would be one of several teams interested in trading with the Brewers. But Burnes’ pro-rated salary wouldn’t be an obstacle for Steinbrenner."

It's unclear how likely a deal is, but this isn't the first time Burnes has been floated as an option for the Yankees. If the Brewers struggle to open the season, it wouldn't be too surprising to see him be dealt ahead of the trade deadline. 

New York still could use another arm in the rotation. Maybe they could land one of the best in the league before the 2024 campaign comes to an end.