Yankees Trade Proposal Sends Coveted $5 Million Shutdown Reliever to NY
The New York Yankees, having recently lost their lead in the American League East to the Baltimore Orioles, are still in a solid position to make the postseason with a 53-32 record. To bolster their chances, general manager Brian Cashman might consider enhancing the bullpen before the July 30 trade deadline, potentially targeting Miami Marlins reliever Tanner Scott.
Chris Kirschner and Brendan Kuty of The Athletic devised six trade proposals to address the Yankees’ roster issues, with former general manager Jim Bowden offering his critiques. Here’s the proposed trade involving Scott:
- Yankees receive: Left-handed pitcher Tanner Scott
- Marlins receive: Shortstop Oswald Peraza and utility player Oswaldo Cabrera
Bowden believes the Marlins should accept this offer, as Peraza could start as their shortstop and Cabrera could serve as a versatile utility player. Both Peraza and Cabrera are currently blocked by more established players on the Yankees, making them expendable.
What Scott Could Bring to the Yankees’ Bullpen
The Yankees’ bullpen has been average in 2024, with a collective 3.73 ERA ranking 14th in MLB and a 1.4 fWAR placing 17th, according to FanGraphs. Closer Clay Holmes has performed well with a 2.65 ERA in 34 innings. Adding another high-leverage reliever like Scott, who has late-inning experience, would be beneficial for the stretch run.
Scott’s performance has improved each year since joining the Marlins in 2022. He posted a 4.31 ERA and 1.61 WHIP in 2022, a 2.31 ERA and 0.99 WHIP in 2023, and a 1.54 ERA with a 1.17 WHIP through his first 35 innings in 2024. Earning $5.7 million this season, Scott’s salary is manageable, especially with him entering free agency in November.
Interest in Scott from Multiple Teams
The Marlins have indicated their intention to be sellers at the trade deadline, starting with trading infielder Luis Arraez to the San Diego Padres on May 4. With a 30-53 record by June 30, their stance hasn’t likely changed. Scott is a valuable asset, attracting interest from several teams. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported interest from the Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies, and Los Angeles Dodgers, among others.
If the Yankees prioritize acquiring Scott, they will face competition from other interested teams, making it challenging to secure the deal.
