11-07-2025
Yankees Expect 'Yankee Tax' Over 5 'Near Ready' Trade Fits With Rival: Report
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The New York Yankees made one thing very clear when they released veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu with $22 million remaining on his contract: The roster is primed for some second half changes.
Rather than hold onto LeMahieu as an underwhelming bench option as they gave up the American League East division lead to the Toronto Blue Jays, the Yankees cut ties with the long-time clubhouse leader and announced that they're looking for upgrades at the trade deadline. And after season-ending injuries to Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt, that will almost certainly include some external pitching additions.
Unfortunately for the Yankees, the trade options are going to be limited. Very few teams will feel so out of the playoff hunt by the deadline that they're willing to sell, and virtually every contender will be bidding for viable starters. And, even worse for the Yankees, one of the only likely sellers is determined to play hardball.
With a 42-50 record entering Friday, the Baltimore Orioles are "said to be ready or near ready to talk seriously" about trading away relievers Andrew Kittredge, Seranthony Dominguez and Gregory Soto, according to SNY's Andy Martino.
BRONX, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 21: Yankees principal owner Hal Steinbrenner speaks during a press conference at Yankee Stadium on December 21, 2022 in Bronx, New York. (Photo by)
BRONX, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 21: Yankees principal owner Hal Steinbrenner speaks during a press conference at Yankee Stadium on December 21, 2022 in Bronx, New York. (Photo by)
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"All of these pitchers, along with starter Tomoyuki Sugano and the returning Zach Eflin, would help fill the Yankees' needs, too," Martino added. "But the Yanks have long been skeptical that Baltimore would ever give them a fair deal; it's known around these parts as the 'Yankee Tax.' "
Rather than overpay even beyond the typically high cost of acquiring pitchers at the trade deadline, the Yankees seem likely to turn to other trade partners if possible.
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