New York Yankees’ Unstoppable Surge: Commanding a 2.5-Game Advantage in AL East!
Hal Steinbrenner’s vision for a sub-$300 million budget hasn’t dimmed the Yankees’ brilliance on the field this season. With an astounding 42-19 record as of June 4, they stand as the undisputed leaders in the American League East. As the trade deadline approaches, the question looms large: Could acquiring Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies elevate Brian Cashman’s strategic maneuvers to new heights?
In a deep dive into early MLB trade deadline talks, ESPN’s Jeff Passan sheds light on potential avenues for the Yankees to reinforce their lineup for the crucial stretch ahead.
“Even with stars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, what’s missing? Well, another dominant arm in the bullpen wouldn’t hurt. Perhaps a power bat for the corner infield? (Ryan) McMahon fits the bill perfectly,” he remarked. “Otherwise, the Yankees appear formidable, and that’s before the imminent return of reigning AL Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole.”
McMahon, an MLB veteran with eight seasons under his belt, all with the Rockies, brings a formidable track record. He boasts four seasons with over 20 home runs and is currently batting .284/.371/.470 with 10 home runs, 10 doubles, 34 RBIs, and 29 runs scored in his first 250 plate appearances of 2024. Under his six-year, $70 million contract inked before the 2022 season, running through 2027, McMahon is set to earn $12 million annually from 2024-25 and $16 million annually from 2026-27, as per Spotrac.
Adding McMahon would address the Yankees’ primary requirement
While the Yankees’ offense has shone brightly this season, spearheaded by potential American League MVPs like Judge and Soto, the right side of their infield, particularly Anthony Rizzo and Gleyber Torres, hasn’t met expectations. On June 3, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden suggested that the Yankees might seek upgrades in this area come the trade deadline if performances don’t improve. This aligns perfectly with Passan’s endorsement of McMahon as a “perfect fit” for the Yankees.
Although McMahon primarily plays third base, his defensive versatility shines through, having logged substantial innings at first and second base over his career. This adaptability could enable Yankees manager Aaron Boone to optimize the lineup based on matchups.
This move would also pay dividends in the post-2024 era
Steinbrenner’s focus on trimming New York’s payroll is clear, labeling the current spending levels as “unsustainable.” Bringing in someone like McMahon could significantly bolster the team’s quest for another World Series crown while facilitating their financial targets in 2025 and beyond.
With several high-earning players potentially departing after this season, including Torres and Rizzo, who collectively earn $31.2 million in 2024, McMahon’s acquisition could streamline these decisions and offer valuable support for DJ LeMahieu at third base.
Furthermore, securing a dependable big-league hitter like McMahon would grant the Yankees the financial leeway to prioritize retaining Soto when he hits free agency at season’s end.
