After designating DJ LeMahieu for assignment and watching the team slide out of first place, New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman made it clear on Wednesday: reinforcements are coming.
Speaking to reporters, Cashman delivered a bold, no-nonsense assessment of where the team stands — and what they need to make a serious push for October.
“We will try to be active, I can tell you that,” Cashman said.
Pitching, Pitching, and More Pitching
The Yankees haven’t just hit a skid — they’ve been gut-punched by injuries to their rotation. Cashman confirmed that three projected World Series starters are now off the board. That’s not just a setback — it’s a crisis.
“I definitely would look to see if I can find a starter… would certainly love to import a starter, some relievers because our bullpen has been taxed and some injuries,” he said.
Translation? Expect the Yankees to go hard after arms. Names like Garrett Crochet, Erick Fedde, or even Tyler Anderson could start circling the rumor mill. With a taxed bullpen and a rotation running on fumes, standing pat is not an option.
Third Base on the Yankees’ Radar
LeMahieu’s DFA leaves a gaping hole in the infield — one Cashman doesn’t intend to ignore. “I’m definitely going to be looking for upgrades (at third base) if I can,” he said. “That doesn’t guarantee anything, but it’s the time of year now.”
The Yankees have been linked to Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon and Toronto’s Isiah Kiner-Falefa — both viable plugs for a struggling hot corner. In the short term, the team will patch things together with Jorbit Vivas, Oswald Peraza, and even backup catcher J.C. Escarra. But make no mistake: that’s a stopgap, not a solution.
Aggressive But Uncertain Market
While Cashman made his intentions clear, he also acknowledged that the trade market is a question mark this year. “It’s a long list,” he admitted, “and I’m not sure if this will be a deep deadline or not…”
But that won’t stop the Yankees from trying. After falling behind the red-hot Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East, the pressure is on to pivot fast. The Yankees can’t afford to limp into August. Not with their October hopes on the line.
