One MLB insider and former general manager says that before the July 30 trade deadline, the New York Yankees should consider dealing for a one-time MVP to replace or platoon with first baseman Anthony Rizzo.
The Yankees have caught fire and currently have the second-best record in baseball. The team has been without ace pitcher Gerrit Cole all season, and 2022 American League MVP Aaron Judge struggled in the first month of the season. But it didn’t matter.
Despite sharing a division with another AL juggernaut, the Baltimore Orioles, the Pinstripes are real title contenders in 2024, and general manager Brian Cashman will undoubtedly attempt to improve the club for the stretch run and playoffs before the trade deadline. There are a few spots on the roster where they could improve, and first base may be one of them.
In a new blog responding to fan questions, The Athletic MLB insider and former GM Jim Bowden was questioned about the potential of the team moving for 2022 National League MVP Paul Goldschmidt. Bowden could see a deal being made, but only on one condition.
“I believe everything relies on Goldschmidt’s performance between now and the trade deadline. If he shows over the next few months that he is an upgrade over Rizzo or in a platoon with him, I will consider it. He’s still an excellent first-base defender, a clubhouse leader, and a proven winner. I would not overpay for Goldschmidt, who will be 37 in September, given that he is a rental and has the same age and decline worries as Rizzo. However, it makes sense to add depth to the lineup and protect against future injuries.
New York Yankees Chairman Hal Steinbrenner stated last week that the team’s present payroll is not “sustainable.” However, adding the remainder of the seven-time All-Star’s contract would not be detrimental to the club in the long run, given this season is the final year of his $130 million contract. Goldschmidt has gotten off to a rocky start in the 2024 season.
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