The New York Yankees wrapped up their business at the trade deadline this year and overall they seemed pleased. However, one couldn’t help but feel like there was one move they really pushed for that they couldn’t make.
Just before the deadline, we learned that the Yankees had traded away Jordan Montgomery to St. Louis for Harrison Bader. Bader provides sensational defense in centerfield, but Montgomery was a solid starting pitcher.
Entering the deadline, the rotation was a priority for the Yankees. They added Frankie Montas, but I didn’t expect them to subtract Jordan Montgomery. After the deal was made, I had a feeling that Brian Cashman was working on getting another starter.
Turns out, the Yankees were going for it. New York and Miami were getting very close on a deal that would send starting pitcher Pablo Lopez to New York. This would have been a huge win for Cashman to acquire both Frankie Montas and Pablo Lopez at the deadline.
However, the deal never materialized. In talking with a few folks, this deal was definitely in the red zone. At one point, it seemed that the Yankees really believed that Lopez was heading their way. However, Miami backed out and decided to hold onto Pablo Lopez.
Yankees will try again?
According to a report from the Miami Herald, Gleyber Torres was centered in the package discussions with Pablo Lopez. While you might scratch your head at the thought of Torres being traded, remember, the Yankees would still have a set infield without Torres.
Oswald Peraza would likely come up to play shortstop while DJ LeMahieu and IKF would become utility infielders. While Torres is enjoying a resurgence this year, he’s a luxury that the Yankees could’ve afforded to trade.
Now, one thing the Miami Herald pointed out is that the teams could start up these discussions once again after the season. Honestly, I think you will see these two teams talk again considering the questions about the Yankees rotation.
Luis Severino and Jameson Taillon are free agents after the season. I know he’s a starter right now, but I really don’t believe that Domingo German is going to be in the Yankees 2023 rotation plans. So that leaves Gerrit Cole, Frankie Montas, and Nestor Cortes.
I wouldn’t be shocked to see the Yankees give Clarke Schmidt a shot in the rotation. Let’s say that they give him a look. That leaves one spot open in the rotation and you have to think the Yankees will want a top of the line arm.
Pablo Lopez would be perfect for the middle of this rotation. The Yankees and Marlins have trade history and already laid the groundwork at the deadline. Starters were at a premium this week, but over the winter, the price might come down. I wouldn’t be shocked at all to see Pablo Lopez with the Yankees in 2023.