The New York Yankees are actively exploring options on the trade market to bolster their roster as they remain just one game behind the National League East leaders.
With the MLB trade deadline looming at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, July 30, the Yankees have been linked to Blake Snell of the San Francisco Giants. Snell, currently in the first year of a two-year, $62 million contract, has garnered significant attention due to his recent performances and potential opt-out clause.
Jeff Passan of ESPN noted the likelihood of both New York teams being associated with Snell, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner. Snell’s recent form has been impressive, yet his contract situation complicates potential trades. If Snell continues to perform well, he could opt out, but if not, he has a $31 million player option for 2025. This situation makes teams hesitant to offer the Giants the substantial return they might expect for a pitcher of Snell’s caliber.
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Despite these complexities, the Yankees might still pursue Snell, especially given the struggles of their starting rotation over the last 35 games, during which they posted a 12-23 record. The Yankees’ rotation has recorded the worst ERA in the American League (5.34) and the second-worst in MLB, only behind the Colorado Rockies. However, Passan highlighted that starting pitching might not be the Yankees’ top priority, given their need for bullpen reinforcements and an additional productive bat.
Blake Snell, 31, has a notable track record, having won two Cy Young Awards, one with the San Diego Padres last season and another in 2018 with the Tampa Bay Rays. His performance with the Padres was outstanding, leading the National League in ERA (2.25), wins above replacement (WAR) for pitchers (6.2), and hits per nine innings pitched (5.75). However, Snell’s current season has been challenging, with a 5.10 ERA in just 10 starts due to injuries. His recent improvement and long history of success make him an attractive target for big-market teams like the Yankees.
In addition to potential trades, the Yankees have already made a significant move by acquiring Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the Miami Marlins on July 27. Chisholm, known for his offensive skills and defensive versatility, is expected to complement stars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. Judge is having another MVP-caliber season, leading the National League in several key offensive categories.
With 55 games remaining and a close race in the standings, the Yankees face immense pressure to add impactful pieces to their roster. Their recent trade for Chisholm is a step in that direction, but securing a player like Snell could further solidify their postseason aspirations and address both practical needs and fan expectations.
