Yankees Reportedly Have Shown Interest In Rising Slugger Though Move May Be Difficult

New York reportedly could make a big move or two ahead of the trade deadline

Scott Taetsch-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees are looking all around the league as the club looks to complete a move or two ahead of the 2023 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline. 

New York currently is just three-and-a-half games out of an American League Wild Card spot and realistically could go on a run and make up some ground in the standings. The Yankees have dealt with a wide range of injuries this season and are finally starting to get healthy and even have star slugger Aaron Judge back with the club. 

The Yankees have seemingly been connected in some way to every slugger available ahead of the trade deadline and one name that keeps coming up is Washington Nationals third baseman Jeimer Candelario. New York reportedly has checked in with Washington on Candelario's availability and is interested in a move, although it could be difficult, according to SNY's Andy Martino. 

"The Yankees are one of about a half dozen teams to talk to Washington about Jeimer Candelario, according to league sources," Martino said. "Luxury tax situation makes it tough for Yanks to add rentals, though. Source suggests they'd need to get Nats to pay down JC's salary."

Candelario arguably is having the best season of his eight-year career so it isn't too surprising that there are plenty of teams showing interest in nabbing him. The 29-year-old is slashing .258/.342/.481 to go along with 16 home runs and 53 RBIs in 99 games. Candelario will be a free agent at the end of the season and likely will cash in after such a successful season so he likely will be a rental for whoever lands him.

The New York offense could use a jumpstart and Candelario could be an intriguing option for the club. New York was linked to other sluggers like Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger, but he no longer will be dealt so nabbing Candelario could be a solid move. The trade deadline is set to pass on August 1 so the Yankees don't have much time left.