Yankees Eyeing pitching help: Keller & Gallen on the Radar as Trade Deadline Approaches
The New York Yankees are facing a critical juncture as the trade deadline looms, with important needs emerging in their pitching staff and infield. General manager brian Cashman has openly acknowledged the extensive list of areas requiring reinforcement, especially focusing on bolstering a rotation depleted by injuries.
Keller’s Status & potential Availability
Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Mitch Keller has emerged as a potential target for the Yankees, alongside other available arms.Currently, Keller is performing exceptionally well, boasting a 3.48 ERA across 119 innings pitched this season.
He’s also battling a minor injury,currently dealing with a blister on his left index finger. Despite this, his performance is noteworthy, perhaps marking his best ERA in a full season.
Keller is in the second year of a five-year, $77 million contract, with approximately $55 million still owed through 2028. He’s also nearing his career-best in wins above replacement (fWAR), currently at 2.6, just shy of his 2023 All-Star season mark of 3.3.
Gallen as a Compelling Choice
However, the Yankees may also turn their attention to Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Zac Gallen. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi believes Gallen would be a “realy good fit” for the Bronx Bombers.
Gallen, who will turn 30 next month, is experiencing a challenging season with a 5.15 ERA over 110 1/3 innings. His strikeout rate has dipped to a career-low 22.7%, a significant drop from his average of 26.1%.
Despite these struggles, Gallen has a history of success, earning Cy Young votes in two of the last three seasons. Notably, he’s shown recent improvement, allowing only one earned run with 19 strikeouts across 13 innings this month.
Arizona’s Position & Potential Sellers
The Diamondbacks’ willingness to part with Gallen remains a key question. Currently holding a 46-47 record, they sit in fourth place in the NL West, 4.5 games out of a Wild Card spot.
General manager Mike Hazen has publicly expressed reluctance to become a seller at the deadline. However, a continued slump could force his hand.
several key players, including Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Eugenio Suárez, are on expiring contracts, making them attractive targets for teams like the Yankees.
Yankees’ Needs: A Clear Picture
Here’s a breakdown of the Yankees’ most pressing needs:
Starting Pitching: A priority, given the injuries to key rotation members.
Relief Pitching: the bullpen has been heavily taxed due to injuries.
* Infield Support: Adding depth and versatility to the infield is also desired.
Cashman has indicated a clear desire to address these areas, signaling an active approach to the trade market. You can expect the Yankees to explore all available options to improve their roster and contend for a playoff berth.
This is a fluid situation, and the Yankees will likely weigh all available options before making any significant moves. Stay tuned for further updates as the trade deadline approaches.
Related reading