The New York Yankees will need bullpen help at the trade deadline later this month, but they are not the only team hunting for relievers.
One of their primary targets is Miami Marlins closer Tanner Scott, whose services will be eagerly sought after in the coming weeks.
“The lefty is ideal, but the competition is stiff, with the Yankees among many interested,” said MLB insider Jon Heyman in The New York Post on Sunday.
The Yankees have the second-most wins in the league (54), but there are weaknesses and injuries. Because superstar outfielder Juan Soto may walk in free agency after the season, GM Brian Cashman has every motive to go all in and be extremely aggressive at the trade deadline as it approaches in the coming weeks.
Landing Scott from the Marlins would be a significant move for the Yankees, partnering the power lefty with closer Clay Holmes to form a devastating late-inning tandem that might shorten games. This might position the Yankees’ bullpen well for a deep run in October.
Scott, 29, has a 1.50 ERA, a 1.14 WHIP, 12 saves, and 38 strikeouts in 36 innings with the Marlins this year. The 29-year-old is playing on an expiring contract, so his price should be reasonable. However, as Heyman wrote, a number of teams will be eager to sign the veteran southpaw.
Trading for relief aid at the deadline is always difficult since bullpen arms are in great demand among contending teams. If the Yankees are unable to sign Scott, they will have to look elsewhere to address a critical need.
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