May 11, 2024; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays third base Isaac Paredes (17) runs back to second base as New York Yankees third base Oswaldo Cabrera (95) catches the ball during the sixth inning at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
After being swept by the New York Mets, the New York Yankees hold a 60-44 record, trailing the Baltimore Orioles by just 1.5 games for the top spot in the American League East.
As the trade deadline approaches, rumors suggest the Yankees are actively seeking to bolster their roster, particularly at first and third base. One potential acquisition could be versatile infielder Isaac Paredes of the Tampa Bay Rays, according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic.
The proposed trade package would involve the Yankees sending outfield prospect Everson Pereira, shortstop Roderick Arias, third baseman Oswaldo Cabrera, second baseman Jorbit Vargas, and right-handed pitcher Zach Messinger to the Rays.
In return, the Yankees would receive Paredes and right-handed pitcher Pete Fairbanks. Paredes, with a 129 OPS+ and fresh off his first All-Star appearance, would significantly strengthen the Yankees’ lineup and provide flexibility for DJ LeMahieu to rotate between first base, second base, and DH. Fairbanks would also enhance the bullpen, potentially sharing closing duties with Clay Holmes.
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For the Rays, this trade would yield several promising prospects. Arias would become a top prospect for the Rays, while Pereira could fill a corner outfield spot. Cabrera offers versatility, Vargas provides an option for second base, and Messinger projects as a future mid-rotation starter. This trade aligns with the Rays’ strategy of seeking long-term benefits, even if it means trading within their division.
If the Rays decide not to trade Paredes, the Yankees might target second baseman Jonathan India from the Cincinnati Reds. ESPN’s Jorge Castillo reports the Yankees’ interest in India, though the Reds are unlikely to trade him unless they fall out of playoff contention. India, the 2021 Rookie of the Year, is having a strong season with a .275/.377/.420 batting line and a 123 wRC+. His defense at second base has also shown improvement, making him an attractive option for the Yankees.
As the trade deadline looms, the Yankees are poised to make strategic moves to strengthen their roster for a postseason push.
