3 pitchers Yankees must add after Anthony Rizzo and Joey Gallo trades

Jon Gray may be moving after spending his career with the Colorado Rockies

While there are no guarantees he will be dealt before the end of the day, the Colorado Rockies have several intriguing trade assets on the block, including right-hander Jon Gray. At one time, he was the best prospect in their entire organization. Flash forward several years and the 29-year-old starting pitcher could be playing elsewhere before his 30th birthday. Will Gray be dealt here?

On the year, Gray is 6-6 in 18 starts with a 3.67 ERA and a 1.224 WHIP. He has recorded 91 strikeouts in 98 innings pitched to only 40 walks. Keep in mind that he pitches half of his games at altitude in Denver. While the bright lights of New York City could be a bit much for the Oklahoman fireballer, he could be exactly what the Yankees need to keep pace in a tight divisional AL East race.

The reason why the Yankees need to prioritize getting Gray is a combination of upside in a new environment, as well as being only a half-season rental. If he thrives in pinstripes, then by all means, bring him back on a multi-year extension. Should he struggle or become way too expensive, then the Yankees can cut bait on their half-season rental. This feels like a win-win.

Ultimately, the Yankees are going to have to get better in their starting rotation if they want to keep pace with the Rays and Red Sox in the AL East, as well as keep the Toronto Blue Jays at bay, who just traded for Jose Berrios from the Minnesota Twins. New York did a great job of upgrading its lineup, but not doing anything to improve the rotation may keep them out of the postseason.

What other starting pitchers should the Yankees look at adding as the trade deadline approaches?