Expect the Yankees to have these trade targets on their radar this winter
The Yankees will work to improve their roster by any means necessary this winter. Brian Cashman’s plans could certainly include a big trade.
It’s no secret the Yankees enter this offseason with money to burn. Staying under the MLB’s luxury tax in 2018 gives Brian Cashman a ton of flexibility heading into 2019. That doesn’t mean free agency is the only path available to improve the Yankees roster.
It’s very likely the organization will look to acquire a star via trade as well. Historically, Cashman has been able to pull off moves under the quiet of darkness. Don’t be surprised if he does the same thing this winter.
In this piece, we’ll walk you through five players who can be the object of Cashman’s affections. We start with a first baseman who might serve as an upgrade over both Greg Bird and Luke Voit.
5. Paul Goldschmidt
Buster Olney is personally responsible for putting the idea of acquiring Goldschmidt out there. He freely admits the concept is pure speculation, but the ESPN personality also says the Diamondback would be an excellent fit with the Yankees.
As has been reported, the D-Backs will listen to offers on their best players, including Paul Goldschmidt. Most contenders are locked in at 1B for 2019; the Cubs have Rizzo, for example. Total speculation: One team that could be a great fit for a Goldschmidt deal -- the Yankees.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) October 14, 2018
The 31-year-old could certainly give Aaron Boone’s lineup an immediate upgrade. He absolutely mashed the ball in the desert last season. Adding a left-handed bat capable of slashing .290/.389/.533 would drastically change the middle of the Yankees order.
The only problem with this idea is that the organization really seems to like what they have in both Bird and Voit. It’s much more likely that New York will head into the 2019 season ready to let those guys battle it out.
It’s worth noting that Goldschmidt only has one year left on his current contract. If he signals to the Diamondbacks that he isn’t willing to commit his long-term future to the club, it could lead to him being available for a bargain. That’s really the only way we see Cashman paying for a first baseman this winter.