The New York Yankees have been one of the quieter teams this offseason, but there is still time for them to improve their roster before Opening Day.
The Yankees are expected to be without Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón and Clarke Schmidt to start the season. Brian Cashman has noted a desire to add a starting pitcher to help cover innings. Additionally, the Yankees have stuck by Anthony Volpe, but an upgrade at shortstop would certainly help their team.
If the Yankees want to spend big on Cody Bellinger, the trade market may be the best way for them to fill those needs. SNY’s Anthony McCarron predicted the Yankees would swing trades with the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs to add MacKenzie Gore and Nico Hoerner.
“The Yankees have some intriguing prospect arms. But it’s unlikely they all bloom into big league stars,” wrote McCarron. “So Brian Cashman and his front office look to use a few to dive into the trade market and acquire lefty MacKenzie Gore, who will be 27 in February, from the Nationals and infielder Nico Hoerner from the Cubs. Gore provides high-end rotation depth and a talented arm that they could develop further. Hoerner, 28, would provide up-the-middle versatility, some on-base skills, and speed.”
Hoerner was a shortstop before the Cubs added Dansby Swanson. He was a Silver Slugger finalist and has won two Gold Gloves at second base. He is still a plus defender at shortstop and would be an upgrade over Volpe at the plate and in the field. He is one year away from free agency, and the Cuibs can afford to trade him now that they have Alex Bregman.
Gore was an All-Star last season, posting a 4.17 ERA. While his overall numbers were not great, he was stellar in the first half. He had a 3.02 ERA in his first 19 starts, but a 6.75 ERA in the second half. He is under club control through 2027 and would help the Yankees’ rotation while they are missing starters. If he plays well, he could claim a role in the rotation even when Cole and Rodón return.
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