MLB Rumors: Yankees Top Trade Deadline Targets

July 07, 2025 , , ,
Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Mitch Keller pitches during 2025 game.

As injuries pile up, the New York Yankees are being forced into aggressive trade mode ahead of the 2025 MLB deadline. 

With Clarke Schmidt now likely needing Tommy John surgery, joining Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil on the shelf, the Yankees’ starting rotation is in rough shape. According to Zach Bachar of Bleacher Report, three pitchers have emerged as top trade targets: Mitch Keller, Sandy Alcantara, and Luis Severino.

Mitch Keller Could Be a Buy-Low Breakthrough

Don’t let the 3-10 record fool you, Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Mitch Keller is pitching far better than his win-loss tally suggests. He’s posted a 3.64 ERA and 1.19 WHIP over 18 starts, with a stellar 3.24 FIP.

The Yankees are reportedly intrigued by Keller’s increased sinker usage and pitch mix, which fits their mold for pitching development. Even better? He’s signed through 2028 on a team-friendly $77 million deal. A potential swap involving pitching prospect Cam Schlittler could give New York a cost-controlled rotation piece without sacrificing elite farm talent.

Sandy Alcantara Offers Upside, But Comes with Risk

Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara would be the flashier option. The 2022 NL Cy Young winner is under team control through 2026 with a $21 million club option for 2027, but he hasn’t been himself this year. 

After missing all of 2024 following Tommy John surgery, Alcantara has stumbled to a 7.01 ERA across 17 starts. Still, his past dominance and favorable contract make him an intriguing bounce-back candidate if the Yankees believe in their ability to restore his form. The issue? The Marlins may ask for more than the Yankees are willing to give, especially with a thin farm system beyond top prospects like Spencer Jones.

Could Luis Severino Return to the Bronx?

A reunion with Athletics right-hander Luis Severino isn’t out of the question. The former Yankee has been frustrated with the A’s temporary home at Sutter Health Park, and his numbers reflect the environment: a 6.79 ERA at home versus a 3.04 ERA on the road. 

Severino’s hefty contract, $67 million over three years, complicates things, and the Athletics may need to eat salary to move him. But with the Yankees desperate for stability, Severino’s familiarity with New York and proven playoff experience might make the risk worth it.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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