While the New York Yankees continue to win at an unfathomable rate, they were recently defeated by the lowly Mets on the back of starting pitcher, Zack Wheeler.
The right-handed pitcher finished with two earned runs, a very good allowance over 6.1 innings, striking out eight batters in that span. The Mets went on to win the game 4-2 in a performance that has been rare against quality teams.
The Yankees and their run production are hard to stop, and most teams have failed to do so, but Wheeler stepping up and putting together this type of performance might lead to the Yankees’ interest.
SNY’s John Harper explains which Yankees prospects could be in play for Wheeler:
“For starters they’re almost certainly not getting Clint Frazier, even if they are willing make a trade with the Yankees, as SNY’s Andy Martino has been reporting. Yankees GM Brian Cashman might trade Frazier at some point, but he’s not giving away long-term control of what he considers a premium talent for two or three months of Wheeler.”
Frazier, who’s under contract for the next few years and is controlled, will not be on the table for a Wheeler trade given his minimal control. The Yankees would only be willing to give away so much unless the Mets extended the starter and then traded him with the guarantee of control.
I imagine a few mid-level prospects would get the job done.
What would the New York Yankees be getting out of Zack Wheeler?
Currently boasting a 4.42 ERA, Wheeler has struggled at times, allowing 15 homers this season already. Despite his deficiencies, he’s a hard-throwing pitcher, something the Yankees value in pitchers. Additionally, players that put on the Pinstripes seem to elevate their game, something that I believe should be factored into the decision if they decide to try and trade for him.
The support needed on the starting pitching rotation is becoming a problem, as ace, Luis Severino continues to push his timetable for return back and could very well miss the entire season. Bringing in a capable player to help supplement his absence seems to be a good idea. The Bombers have until July 31st to strike a deal.