April 10, 2025 | By Zach Pressnell, Newsweek
As the New York Yankees work to keep their World Series aspirations alive, they know that to truly contend, their roster needs some strategic upgrades. The loss of Gerrit Cole for the season has left a significant gap, but the Yankees could make key moves to fortify both their lineup and pitching staff. Below are four potential trade scenarios that could help the Yankees become even stronger contenders for the title:
1. Yankees Secure a New Ace
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Yankees Receive: RHP Sandy Alcántara
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Marlins Receive: OF Spencer Jones, RHP Ben Hess, SS/2B Roderick Arias, LHP Brock Selvidge
Sandy Alcántara, the Marlins’ ace, would bring elite pitching to New York’s rotation. With multiple years of team control left and his Cy Young-caliber stuff, Alcántara represents a long-term solution for the Yankees’ pitching woes. The hefty price would include several top prospects, but it’s the kind of move a championship contender makes.
2. Yankees Add Two All-Stars for a Complete Roster Makeover
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Yankees Receive: 3B Nolan Arenado, RHP Ryan Helsley, RHP Miles Mikolas, $25 million
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Cardinals Receive: RHP Bryce Cunningham, SS/2B Roderick Arias, RHP Cam Schlitter
This blockbuster deal could bring third baseman Nolan Arenado to New York to solidify third base. Along with Arenado, the Yankees would add relief ace Ryan Helsley and starter Miles Mikolas, with a financial package that helps alleviate some of the contract burdens. This trade would upgrade both the lineup and bullpen, providing more depth for the playoff push.
3. Yankees Reunite with a Familiar Face
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Yankees Receive: RHP Michael King, INF Luis Arráez
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Padres Receive: OF Spencer Jones, RHP Ben Hess, RHP Cade Smith
If the Yankees don’t want to break the bank for an ace like Alcántara, they could look to reacquire Michael King, a familiar arm with top-of-the-rotation potential. Adding Luis Arráez would bring a high-contact hitter to the lineup, improving the offense and providing a spark at the top of the order, which would allow Aaron Judge to drive in more runs.
4. Yankees Take a Chance on a Former Top Prospect
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Yankees Receive: RHP Bobby Miller
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Dodgers Receive: OF Everson Pereira, LHP Brock Selvidge
This low-risk, high-reward trade would bring former top Dodgers pitching prospect Bobby Miller to New York. With Los Angeles crowded in their rotation, Miller could thrive with the Yankees. The Yankees would send two prospects to the Dodgers in return, taking a chance on a player who could surprise in a new environment.
Each of these trades offers a unique way for the Yankees to bolster their chances of reaching the World Series. While some involve taking a bigger risk, others offer more established stars. Regardless of the path, these moves would help propel the Yankees to compete at the highest level.
