Now that two of the top starting pitchers are off the trade market, where do the Yankees turn now for a solid starting pitcher?
Well, with this recent loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, and Trevor Bauer being traded to the Cincinnati Reds (yes and it was just for Yasiel Puig) is the latest test of faith for Yankee fans. Where do they go from here? With Stroman and Bauer now off the market, who can be potential suitors to fill out the rotation?
Names such as Robbie Ray and Matthew Boyd have surfaced around Yankees rumors, but everything surrounding the team has been quiet thus far. As a fan, it is hard being left in the dark while Cash is working magic. Is there doubt within the fan base now that two of the top arms on the market are on non-contending teams? Of course, but we still cannot count this team out. Losing is losing, plain and simple, but the offense will find its rhythm again and the pitcher they will supposedly add will help push this team to the finish point.
The reports of Madison Bumgarner being taken off the trade market seems a little bullish. San Francisco wants the best possible return for their former World Series MVP and free agent to be. They should be able to receive a decent return, and if I were the front office, I would include Clint Frazier in the deal in order to secure one of the best, if not the best postseason pitcher of all time. There should even be some interest in left-handed reliever Will Smith as well. Adding him to an already lethal bullpen could create the possibility of a bullpen start in the playoffs.
Knowing how important this deadline is for the Yankees and their title hopes, there should be no reason they do not go full throttle and acquire at least two high-quality pitchers. Just keeping the faith and not losing hope in this team is what is going to make this season more successful not only for the fans but for the organization. Cashman is ready to unleash an array of tricks that will land us elite talent, and I am all for it.