5 pitchers most likely to be traded to the Yankees

3. Trevor Bauer

There’s a logical argument to be made in support of Trevor Bauer as the best potential Yankees acquisition this summer. The Indians will demand a high price in exchange for the 28-year-old starter, but Cashman could see him as a potential ace to anchor the Yankees rotation for years to come.

Unlike the previous pitchers featured on this list, Bauer is not currently enjoying the best season of his career. His ERA of 3.61 in his 20 starts on the season is a solid number, but it doesn’t measure up to the minuscule 2.21 ERA he posted in 2018. Cashman and the Yankees’ analytics staff will be attracted to the idea that Bauer has pitched like an above-average starter since 2014.

The downside to Bauer is twofold. First, he’s got an outspoken personality that might not play overly well in New York City. He’s not going to be intimidated by the scrutiny of the local media, but he isn’t the sort of understated player that Cashman generally covets.

Secondly, Bauer profiles more appropriately as a No. 2 or No. 3 starter than a bona fide ace. Given the lack of quality arms on the market it’s fair to expect Cleveland to tout him as a potential ace. That could make securing an agreeable framework for a deal difficult.

There’s no question Bauer would give the Yankees rotation a healthy boost, but he could end up being too expensive for Cashman’s tastes.