The New York Yankees have several needs, some that have been apparent for months, and others that have emerged following Gerrit Cole’s injury. While adding another starting pitcher would be ideal for a team with World Series aspirations, the Yankees also require an infielder.
Fortunately, the St. Louis Cardinals might be able to address both of these needs. The Cardinals have Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado, both of whom are under substantial contracts totaling $335 million, which could be a significant hurdle for the Yankees.
Zach Pressnell of FanSided proposed a trade in which the Yankees acquire both players. He acknowledges the financial challenges, but believes this deal could work if New York is willing to take on the contracts.
“While the Yankees have shown interest in third baseman Nolan Arenado, two factors have hindered any potential deal: Cashman’s reluctance to absorb much of the contract and Arenado’s reported refusal to waive his no-trade clause for a move to New York,” Pressnell explains.
The Yankees could also look to bring back Sonny Gray to fill Cole’s spot in the rotation. Gray has been excellent in recent seasons and would provide much-needed stability to a rotation with uncertainties. Pressnell speculates that while the trade would significantly impact the Yankees’ payroll, they could retain most of their top prospects and only part with a few lower-tier players.