Yankees Could Target Rockies’ Corner Infielder at Trade Deadline: ‘Perfect Fit’
The New York Yankees are thriving, boasting the best record in baseball at 42-19, thanks to stellar performances from Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and their pitching staff.
However, the team still has areas to improve, particularly at the corner infield positions and in the bullpen. Currently, their third basemen—Oswaldo Cabrera, DJ LeMahieu, and Jon Berti—have a combined wRC+ of 86, ranking eighth-worst in MLB.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan suggests that Colorado Rockies’ slugger Ryan McMahon could be a prime target for the Yankees. Passan wrote, “When you’ve got Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, what more do you need? Well, another high-octane bullpen arm would be nice. Maybe a corner-infield bat? (McMahon would be a perfect fit, actually).”
The Rockies are listed as potential “unloaders,” hinting at a possible fire-sale of their top talent. However, Passan notes that Colorado has a history of inactivity at the deadline. Despite owner Dick Monfort’s reluctance to trade McMahon, his high value and performance this season could make him a key trade asset.
Ryan McMahon, 29, is enjoying a career-best season with a .284 batting average, .841 OPS, and 131 OPS+. He leads the Rockies in home runs (10) and wRC+ (125). His left-handed power would suit Yankee Stadium’s right field and bolster the Yankees’ lineup.
Defensively, McMahon is elite. He had 17 defensive runs saved (DRS) last season, ranking second among third basemen and seventh in MLB. Since 2020, he has accumulated the fourth-most DRS (45) and the third-highest outs above average (OAA) among third basemen (29).
McMahon would be a significant upgrade for the Yankees at third base, maintaining strong defense while enhancing offensive output. As the trade deadline approaches, keep an eye on GM Brian Cashman’s pursuit of the Rockies infielder.
