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3 Perfect Fits for Yankees at 2025 MLB Trade Deadline

Yankees Eye Trade Deadline Moves with 2025 Contention in Mind

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the New York Yankees find themselves in a familiar position: perched atop the American League East but grappling with inconsistencies that could derail their postseason aspirations. With a roster boasting superstars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, the Yankees' front office, led by general manager Brian Cashman, is under pressure to bolster the team not just for a deep playoff run this year, but to lay the groundwork for sustained success into 2025 and beyond. The organization's farm system, while not as robust as in years past, still offers intriguing prospects that could be dangled in deals for established talent. This year's deadline strategy appears focused on acquiring players with club control extending into future seasons, ensuring the Yankees remain competitive without the constant need for annual overhauls.

The Yankees' most glaring needs heading into the deadline revolve around pitching depth and offensive consistency. Their starting rotation has been a rollercoaster, with injuries and underperformance plaguing key arms. The bullpen, while solid in spots, could use reinforcements to handle the high-leverage innings of October baseball. On the hitting side, the lineup has shown flashes of dominance but lacks reliability in the middle order, particularly with aging veterans and inconsistent performers. Cashman has historically been aggressive at the deadline, and this year should be no exception, especially with the Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox breathing down their necks in the division.

One of the top targets on the Yankees' radar is Detroit Tigers left-hander Tarik Skubal. At 27 years old, Skubal has emerged as one of the most dominant starters in the American League, boasting a sub-3.00 ERA and a strikeout rate that rivals the elite aces in the game. His fastball velocity and devastating changeup make him a nightmare for opposing hitters, and crucially for the Yankees, he remains under team control through the 2026 season. Acquiring Skubal would not only stabilize the rotation for the stretch run but also provide a long-term partner for Gerrit Cole at the top of the staff. The Tigers, mired in a rebuild, might be willing to part with him for a hefty package, potentially including top prospects like Jasson Domínguez or Spencer Jones, along with mid-tier arms. However, Detroit's asking price could be steep, as Skubal represents their brightest young star. For the Yankees, this move would signal a commitment to building a championship-caliber rotation that extends well into 2025, where Skubal could anchor the staff during what might be a transitional year if free agents like Soto depart.

Another intriguing pitching option is Chicago White Sox southpaw Garrett Crochet. The 25-year-old has transitioned seamlessly from the bullpen to the rotation this season, showcasing electric stuff with a fastball that touches triple digits and a wipeout slider. Crochet's performance has been a bright spot for a dismal White Sox team, and with arbitration eligibility not kicking in until after 2025, he offers cost-controlled excellence. The Yankees could envision him as a high-upside starter or even a multi-inning reliever in the playoffs, providing flexibility that addresses both rotation and bullpen needs. Trading for Crochet would likely require parting with a mix of prospects and perhaps a major league-ready player like Oswald Peraza. The White Sox, in full teardown mode, are expected to be active sellers, making Crochet a realistic target. Looking ahead to 2025, his youth and potential make him an ideal piece for a Yankees team that might need to retool around core players like Judge if they fail to retain Soto in free agency.

On the hitting front, the Yankees have been linked to Miami Marlins outfielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. The 26-year-old Bahamian star brings a unique blend of speed, power, and defensive versatility to the table. Capable of playing center field or second base, Chisholm could address the Yankees' outfield depth issues, especially with Alex Verdugo's impending free agency and Trent Grisham's struggles at the plate. Chisholm's .250-plus batting average, combined with his ability to steal bases and hit for extra bases, would inject athleticism into a lineup that sometimes feels stagnant. Under team control through 2026, he fits the Yankees' desire for players who can contribute immediately and in the future. The Marlins, perennial sellers, might demand a package centered around pitching prospects like Chase Hampton or Will Warren. For 2025, Chisholm could form a dynamic outfield trio with Judge and potentially Soto, or serve as a bridge if Soto walks, providing the Yankees with a marketable young star to build around.

Beyond these headliners, the Yankees are scouting several under-the-radar targets that could provide value without depleting their farm system entirely. Toronto Blue Jays reliever Yusei Kikuchi, a left-handed starter with a solid strikeout-to-walk ratio, could slide into the back of the rotation or serve as a long reliever. With his contract expiring after this season, he's more of a rental, but his experience in the AL East makes him an attractive short-term fix that doesn't compromise 2025 plans. Similarly, Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Isaac Paredes has caught the Yankees' eye. The 25-year-old has shown pop in his bat, hitting over 20 home runs last season, and his defensive prowess at the hot corner could upgrade a position where DJ LeMahieu has battled injuries and declining production. Paredes is under control through 2027, making him a long-term solution that aligns with the Yankees' vision for sustained contention.

The infield market also presents opportunities, with names like Colorado Rockies third baseman Ryan McMahon floating around. McMahon, 29, offers a left-handed bat with power and Gold Glove-caliber defense. While Coors Field inflates his numbers, his ability to handle velocity and hit to all fields could thrive in Yankee Stadium's short porch. Under contract through 2027 at a reasonable salary, he's the type of player Cashman loves—productive, cost-effective, and controllable. A trade for McMahon might involve sending back prospects like Everson Pereira or a package of lower-level talents, allowing the Yankees to preserve their top assets for bigger fish.

Bullpen help is another priority, as the Yankees' relief corps has shown vulnerability in late innings. San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez, with his triple-digit fastball and nasty splitter, could be available if the Padres fall out of contention. Though he's a free agent after 2025, his acquisition would provide immediate high-leverage firepower. Alternatively, the Los Angeles Angels' Carlos Estévez, another hard-throwing righty, fits as a setup man or closer insurance, with his contract running through 2025.

Strategically, Cashman's approach this deadline seems influenced by the uncertainty surrounding Juan Soto's future. Soto, acquired in a blockbuster last offseason, is set to hit free agency after this year, and while the Yankees are favorites to re-sign him, nothing is guaranteed. Targeting players with control into 2025 and beyond hedges against that risk, ensuring the team doesn't enter next season with massive holes. The farm system's depth in outfielders and pitchers gives Cashman leverage in negotiations, but he must balance short-term gains with long-term sustainability.

In the broader context of MLB's evolving landscape, the Yankees' deadline moves could reshape the AL East. The Orioles, with their young core, are aggressive buyers, potentially targeting similar arms like Skubal or Crochet. The Red Sox, surprisingly competitive, might also dip into the market. For the Yankees, failing to make a splash could signal complacency, especially after a disappointing end to last season.

Ultimately, the trade deadline represents a pivotal moment for the Yankees' championship window. By prioritizing acquisitions like Skubal, Crochet, or Chisholm—players who can impact both now and in 2025—the team positions itself not just for a World Series push this October, but for dominance in the years ahead. Fans in the Bronx are accustomed to bold moves, and with the deadline looming, all eyes are on Cashman to deliver the pieces that could turn potential into hardware. As the rumors swirl and deals materialize, one thing is clear: the Yankees are playing the long game, with 2025 firmly in their sights.

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Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/mlb/yankees-trade-deadline-targets-2025 ]