As the Yankees sit two games back in the loss column for the final playoff spot in the American League, Brendan Kuty of The Athletic reports that the team is “leaning towards” buying at the trade deadline, though with some caveats.
Per Kuty, a disastrous showing this weekend in a huge series with the Orioles could sway the Yanks in another direction, while the team is also reportedly not expected to add “much, if any,” to their current luxury tax payroll.
Previous reports indicated the Bombers might prioritize getting under the top luxury tax tier at the deadline.
While the Yankees are reportedly leaning towards buying, big splashes shouldn’t be expected, and Kuty reports prospects Jasson Dominguez and Everson Pereira are likely off limits, while Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto are reportedly off the trading block.
So, aside from potential bullpen additions and an outfielder, like Dylan Carlson, Randal Grichuk, or Cody Bellinger, the Yankees will likely have to rely more on the returns of Aaron Judge, Nestor Cortes, and Jonathan Loaisiga to provide a bump.