The New York Yankees are reportedly re-evaluating their trade deadline strategy, with a significant shift towards acquiring right-handed hitting bats.
This pivot comes as the team grapples with a recent offensive slump, particularly during the absence of star player Aaron Judge, who is sidelined for four to six weeks with a Grade 2 hamstring strain. While the Yankees' pitching staff boasts a collective 3.41 ERA, ranking it atop Major League Baseball, the offense has struggled, scoring more than a run per game less since Judge's injury.
Previously, the Yankees' primary areas of focus for potential trades were the bullpen, catcher position, and possibly a starting pitcher. While adding another arm to the bullpen remains a possibility, the immediate need for offensive firepower has become paramount. The team is exploring a range of offensive targets, including Lane Thomas, Spencer Steer (pending health), Jo Adell, Jorge Polanco, and George Springer.
Notably, the Yankees do not appear to be pursuing center fielder Luis Robert Jr. They had considered him in the offseason before re-signing Cody Bellinger. However, Robert's history of availability issues this season has apparently led the Yankees to look elsewhere for offensive reinforcements.