NEW YORK – In this “Let’s Make a Deal’’ window around baseball, the Yankees owe it to their fans and their two biggest stars to improve the club toward a playoff push.
There is no point in allowing another year of the prime of Gerrit Cole and Aaron Judge to pass without adding upgrades to a team that needs a boost before Tuesday’s MLB trade deadline.
And that means landing a potential impact outfield bat, and perhaps another proven veteran leader and/or a catcher on an expiring contract.
“I know it’s an arduous time for the front office and working through so many different scenarios,’’ said Yankees manager Aaron Boone, whose current focus is “to keep it simple in our clubhouse.’’
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Speaking on Wednesday afternoon, Boone said that he finds this to be “an exciting time,’’ with the speculation about deals floating around.
And as things potentially become more reality based, “that’s where I get a little more involved,’’ said Boone.
Getting the reigning MVP Judge back in the lineup soon, along with injured starter Nestor Cortes and releiver Jonathan Loaisiga, is not enough. Here are five players the Yankees might target in the coming days:
Cody Bellinger
If the Chicago Cubs are willing to move him, the lefty-swinging power hitter could be an ideal fit in pinstripes.
Not only does Bellinger have a built-for-Yankee Stadium swing, but the former NL MVP with the Los Angeles Dodgers (2019) is an above average outfielder who can handle all three spots.
He can also play some first base. And his father, Clay, played a utility role on the 1999 and 2000 world champion Yankees.
Bellinger, 28, signed for $17.5 million this year, which includes a $5 million buyout of an option for 2024.
Currently, Bellinger’s stock is soaring – increasing any potential price tag.
Entering Wednesday, Bellinger was batting .429 (33-for-77) in July (20 games), with seven…
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