The New York Yankees have one of the most balanced teams in Major League Baseball but have flaws that need to be addressed at the trade deadline.
At 48-35, New York is clinging on to a one-and-a-half game lead over the Tampa Bay Rays for first place in the American League East.
With upgrades needed at the deadline, it’s important for the Yankees to figure out which team would be the most ideal trade partner to maximize a return.
Zachary Rotman of FanSided did that for the Yankees and three other contenders; according to Rotman, New York’s ideal trade partner is the Colorado Rockies.
The Rockies have two of the best trade chips available in reliever Jake Bird and corner infielder Ryan McMahon, both of whom have been linked to the Yankees.
“First, Jake Bird will be a reliever every contender asks about, and rightfully so,” wrote Rotman. “The Yankees could use another reliever, and Bird, paired with Matt Blake, should have a ton of success in the Bronx.”
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Bird, 29, is having a career-year and could be a first-time All-Star this season. Bird is 2-1 with a 2.68 ERA and a 1.26 WHIP in 36 appearances.
“Additionally, the Yankees can pursue Ryan McMahon to fill the third base hole that’s been prevalent all season long,” Rotman said. “His left-handed bat would be a good fit with the short porch, and he happens to be an excellent defender as well.”
McMahon, 30, can play first and third base, giving the Yankees some positional flexibility. While his overall numbers aren’t great, McMahon has been on a heater since May.
Overall, McMahon has 12 home runs and 25 RBI while slashing just .220/.322/.394 in 82 games. In his last 53 games, McMahon has 10 homers and an .832 OPS, per Rotman.
Acquiring both Bird and McMahon would be a great move for New York and bolster its chances at making it back to the World Series.
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