Yankees Reportedly Linked To Nationals Duo In Possible Trade Deadline Stunner

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

David Banks-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 dealt with a wide range of injuries so far this season but is starting to get healthier and is within range of an American League Wild Card spot. The Yankees reportedly will have star slugger Aaron Judge back in the lineup shortly and the trade deadline is less than a week away so New York fans should expect some moves. 

The Yankees have been tied to seemingly anyone and everyone that has been rumored to be available. From Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger to St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jack Flaherty, New York has been linked to seemingly every big name available. Another move that could make sense reportedly is a deal with the Washington Nationals for third baseman Jeimer Candelario and outfielder Lane Thomas, according to The Athletic's Jim Bowden. 

"The Yankees need to improve their offense at third base and in left field, and this trade with the Nationals would address both areas in one fell swoop," An impending free agent, Candelario, 29, is having perhaps the best year of his career as he’s slashed .256/.336/.483 with 16 home runs and 52 RBIs. He has posted a 127 OPS+ and been worth 3.0 WAR, according to Baseball Reference. Thomas, 27, should have represented the Nationals in the All-Star Game as he’s having a breakout season, slashing .293/.341/.486 with 16 homers and 54 RBIs. He has logged a 130 OPS+ to go with 3.5 WAR and is under team control through 2025.

"In return, the Nationals would receive four prospects, including pitchers Richard Fitts (a 23-year-old who’s at Double-A) and Chase Hampton (21, Double-A), outfielder Anthony Hall (22, Low A, currently on the IL), and shortstop Roderick Arias (18, rookie ball). A strong package of prospects that the Nationals can afford to wait on as their rebuild progresses."

If the Yankees were to make this move, it likely would be a major lift for the team as they look to make up ground in the standings. New York currently is just two-and-a-half games out of a Wild Card spot and adding a pair like Candelario and Thomas could provide the firepower and depth needed to jumpstart the Yankees' offense. New York has been linked to Candelario and Thomas at different points, but if the club could acquire both it certainly would be a surprise. The trade deadline is just under a week away and we're sure to hear about plenty of rumors ahead of it.