MLB Trade Deadline Rumors: Will the Yankees Make a Blockbuster Pitching Move?

By Oliver Wiener June 10, 2025 09:10

As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, speculation is mounting around the New York Yankees and their potential to make a significant splash in the pitching market. The Yankees, perennial contenders with a potent offense, have shown vulnerability in their bullpen and rotation depth this season, fueling rumors that they could pursue a blockbuster pitching acquisition to bolster their postseason chances.

Yankees’ Pitching Needs

The 2025 Yankees have a solid core but have struggled with consistency in their bullpen and starting rotation depth. According to recent analysis, New York’s biggest needs lie in the bullpen and second base, but pitching remains a priority as the team eyes a deep playoff run. The bullpen, in particular, has been a concern, with the Yankees ranking near the middle of the league in key relief metrics such as strikeout and swing-and-miss rates. Adding a dominant arm capable of high-leverage innings could be the difference-maker in October.

Potential Targets on the Market

The trade market this year is rich with pitching talent, especially relievers who could immediately impact a contender’s bullpen. Tampa Bay’s Pete Fairbanks stands out as a prime candidate. Fairbanks, the Rays’ primary closer, boasts a 1.88 ERA over 24 innings in 2025 and has already recorded 11 saves this season. His affordable contract ($3.67 million in 2025 with a $7 million club option for 2026) makes him an attractive target for the Yankees, who value cost-effective yet elite bullpen arms.

Another intriguing name is Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals. Helsley, last year’s MLB leader with 49 saves, has a 3.52 ERA in 2025 and 13 saves so far this season. While the Cardinals’ success makes him a less likely trade candidate, his expiring contract and proven track record as a closer could entice the Yankees if St. Louis decides to sell at the deadline.

On the starting pitching front, the Miami Marlins’ Sandy Alcantara was initially expected to be the prize of the trade market. However, his 2025 season has been rocky, with an 8.47 ERA and a 1.67 WHIP over 51 innings. Despite this, Alcantara’s elite velocity and pitch arsenal keep him on the radar for teams willing to bet on a rebound. The Yankees could be one such team if they believe they can unlock his potential and add a frontline starter to their rotation.

Yankees’ Trade Strategy and Outlook

The Yankees have shown a willingness to be active at the deadline but also a calculated approach. Their focus has been on plugging roster holes without mortgaging the future excessively. With second base also a priority, the team might need to balance acquiring pitching help with addressing infield needs, possibly targeting players like Amed Rosario or Eugenio Suárez.

As ESPN’s June Stock Watch notes, the Yankees are positioned as contenders but must decide how aggressively to pursue upgrades before the deadline. The team’s front office will likely weigh the cost of acquiring a top-tier reliever or starter against the potential playoff impact and the prospects they would need to surrender.

With the trade deadline less than two months away, the Yankees face critical decisions. The pitching market offers several enticing options, from established closers like Pete Fairbanks and Ryan Helsley to high-upside starters like Sandy Alcantara. Whether New York opts for a blockbuster move or a more modest upgrade, their actions will signal their commitment to a championship push in 2025. As one MLB insider put it, “The Yankees always want to be in the mix, and pitching is the currency that can win October games.” Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Bronx Bombers pull the trigger on a game-changing pitching acquisition