The New York Yankees are reportedly exploring trade options to acquire a new catcher, with Baltimore Orioles' Adley Rutschman among the players on their radar. The Yankees have been evaluating their catching situation, seeking offensive improvements to complement their current tandem of Austin Wells and Ali Sanchez, whose defensive capabilities have been praised by pitchers.
Rutschman, a switch-hitting three-time All-Star, could address the Yankees' need for a right-handed bat, a commodity in short supply as the Aug. 3 trade deadline approaches. However, Rutschman is currently on the 10-day injured list due to wrist inflammation, an issue that has sidelined him since July 19. Prior to his injury, he was batting .251 with eight home runs and 47 RBIs in 67 games. A timeline for his return has not yet been clarified.
Rutschman is under contract with the Orioles through the 2027 season, and his long-term future with the team appears uncertain. The Orioles seem poised to rely on rookie Samuel Basallo at the catcher position moving forward, having signed him to an eight-year, $67 million contract.
Other catching options are also being considered. The availability of Ryan Jeffers from the Minnesota Twins is uncertain, as the Twins reportedly view themselves as buyers at the deadline. Jeffers has hit .294 with nine home runs in 47 games this season. The Colorado Rockies' Hunter Goodman is noted for his offensive potential, but his defensive abilities and trade availability are less clear. Jon Heyman of the Post also mentioned Tyler Stephenson of the Cincinnati Reds as a potential target, who has hit .248 with eight home runs in 81 games. The Los Angeles Angels recently traded catcher Logan O'Hoppe to the Texas Rangers.