The New York Yankees missed out on adding Japanese sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto during MLB free agency. They were in on the starter before he inked a record-breaking contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
This has not stopped front office head Brian Cashman and Co. from attempting to upgrade their rotation.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale has more specific information on this. The MLB insider notes that New York is interested in Miami Marlins pitcher Jesus Luzardo. The team is also showing interest in Cleveland Guardians star Shane Bieber.
The fact that New York is in on Bieber shouldn’t be considered a surprise. The team has been linked to him as well as Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease.
But the addition of Luzardo in Yankees trade rumors is rather interesting. The former Oakland Athletics top prospect is just 26 years old and should be considered a long-term solution if the Bronx Bombers are able to add him to the mix.
- Jesus Luzardo stats (2023): 10-10 record, 3.58 ERA, 1.22 WHIP
Last season saw Luzardo strike out 208 batters in 178.2 innings pitched. Both represented career highs for the Peru native.
Related: New York Yankees targeting star pitcher on MLB trade block
Jesus Luzardo trade makes sense for the New York Yankees
Luzardo is under team control via arbitration for the next three seasons. His expected salary for the 2024 season is a mere $5.9 million.
This leads us to wonder why the Miami Marlins would even be listening to offers for the still-young pitcher. Then again, they are seeking help in the lineup with an excess of starting pitching. This could lead to a perfect scenario for the Yankees.
As noted above, New York missed out on the Yamamoto sweepstakes. It is also said to be in on reigning National League Cy Young winner Blake Snell, among others.
There is a scenario in play where the Yankees add two starters to the mix. Gerrit Cole heads the team’s rotation.
Outside of that, there are a whole heck of a lot of question marks. Last offseason’s big free agent signing, Carlos Rodón, struggled to the tune of a 6.85 ERA. Clarke Schmidt (4.64 ERA, 1.35 WHIP), Domingo Germán (4.56 ERA) and Nestor Cortes (4.97 ERA) didn’t inspire too much confidence, either.
New York’s blockbuster trade for Juan Soto also cost the team multiple rotation options, including Jhony Brito and Michael King.