Yankees rumors: Royals could send former hated rival to Evil Empire

The Yankees could turn to a former rival to strengthen their outfield before the trade deadline with the Royals possibly willing to deal Andrew Benintendi.

The Yankees already have the best record in baseball and a lineup full of stars. That doesn’t mean they won’t try to get even better before the trade deadline.

And apparently, they have their sights set on a newly-minted All-Star who would come in and fill the gap in left field.

He just happens to be a former Red Sox star.

Yankees rumors: Royals could send former hated rival to Evil Empire

According to the New York Daily News, New York and Kansas City have had “ongoing” talks about Andrew Benintendi.

Benintendi, who was drafted by Boston and played five seasons for the Red Sox, was traded to the Royals in 2021. He just notched his first MLB All-Star nod this year after picking up his first Gold Glove last season.

Kansas City is rumored to want a package of prospects that most teams aren’t going to be willing to give. New York isn’t desperate, but they do have a farm system that could entice the Royals into a trade. The Daily News reported KC scouts have already been scouting NY heavily. The Yankees just have to bide their time until the Royals figure out they’re the best trade partner to be had.

Batting .313/.384/.396, Benintendi would be a clear upgrade over the underperforming Joey Gallo. Picking him up would be the kind of move that puts the Yankees over the top in their pursuit of a first World Series title since 2009.

If it takes embracing a former rival, so be it.