Yankees could pursue young starter with elite stuff before deadline
Yankees could pursue young starter with elite stuff before deadline originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The New York Yankees aren't short on pitching—but they may still be in the market for more.
With Luis Gil expected back before the end of the season and Will Warren emerging as a talent, they have Ryan Yarbrough holding his own as a serviceable fifth starter. The rotation certainly isn't their biggest concern at the moment.
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But according to The Athletic's trade deadline board released Wednesday, a name with elite upside is quietly gaining traction and could be a catch for the Yankees.
Edward Cabrera is the most intriguing name included in the possible trade candidates.
Miami Marlins starting pitcher Edward Cabrera pitches against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Truist Park.Mady Mertens-USA TODAY Sports
The Marlins right-hander has made meaningful changes to his arsenal and mechanics this year, including a lower arm slot, a new sinker, and an increased reliance on his curveball over his slider. The result? He's currently in the best stretch of command in his young career. The Athletic noted that if Cabrera sustained this level of performance across a full season, his trade value could spike significantly.
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More importantly, they called his pure stuff 'the best of any starting pitcher thought to be on the market.'
That's the kind of potential that could interest the Yankees—especially if they believe Cabrera is turning a corner. The 26-year-old is under team control through 2028, which would align with the Yankees' long-term rotation plans, not just a short-term October push.
While almost every team will ask for top prospect George Lombard, Jr. this deadline, the Yankees are unlikely to package him in a deal right now. Spencer Jones, however, who has shown great potential, could be a possible trade chip.
The Yankees have also been loosely linked to several other possible deadline targets: Sandy Alcantara (Marlins), Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly (Diamondbacks), and Freddy Peralta (Brewers). All would represent a clear upgrade over Yarbrough, who has been reliable but lacks the swing-and-miss stuff the Yankees could use in a postseason rotation.
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Still, there are reasons to be skeptical of a major move for a starter. Gil, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, is expected back later this season. The team's more pressing needs may be at third base or in the bullpen, where innings are piling up and defined roles remain in flux.
But when a starter with frontline potential like Cabrera becomes available—especially one who appears to be evolving in real time—it's the kind of name that forces a conversation.
And if the Yankees are serious about ending their World Series drought, it may not be a matter of need; it may be about what gives them the best chance in October.
Related: Yankees Could Solve Multiple Problems With One Infield Trade
Related: Closer Role In Question As Luke Weaver Nears Yankees Return
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
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