Yankees Reportedly Could Land Nationals Slugger Ahead Of Trade Deadline

New York could be in the market for a new slugger ahead of the trade deadline

Scott Taetsch-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees are going to be busy ahead of the 2023 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline and could add even more firepower to the lineup.

New York has been decimated by injuries so far this season but 2022 American League Most Valuable Player Aaron Judge has made progress in his rehabilitation and should be back in time for the postseason push. The Yankees likely also will be extremely active ahead of the trade deadline and one player that the club reportedly could be a fit for is Washington Nationals slugger Jeimer Candelario, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.

"Washington doesn't have a lot of trade candidates, but Candelario seems like a lock to be moved by the Deadline," Feinsand said. "The impending free agent has a .821 OPS, 16 home runs, and a 2.9 bWAR in 93 games and is owed less than $2 million for the remainder of the season. Outfielder Lane Thomas has also generated a lot of interest, but with two more years of control, he's far less likely to be dealt. Potential fits: (Miami Marlins), (Minnesota Twins), Yankees."

Candelario would be a perfect trade candidate for the Yankees if he ends up being moved like many expect him to be. The 29-year-old immediately could help the club out at third base and be a clear upgrade. In 93 games so far this season Candelario has slashed .257/.335/.486 to go along with 16 home runs and 50 RBIs. The nine-year veteran will be a free agent at the end of the season so he could be just a rental, but if the Yankees are serious about making a postseason push, he could be a solid piece to put them over the top. 

The trade deadline is set to pass on August 1 and whether or not New York lands Candelario, it likely will make at least a move or two.