The New York Yankees might be eyeing upgrades at first base as the MLB Trade Deadline approaches. While Anthony Rizzo, a fan favorite, is striving to overcome his current slump, the Yankees could be tempted to seek an alternative if his struggles persist.
Jim Bowden of The Athletic has linked the Yankees to several high-profile trade candidates, including Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Pete Alonso, and Paul Goldschmidt. These players’ availability will depend on various factors, such as their teams’ standings, contract negotiations, and other dynamics.
An in-division trade for Guerrero seems improbable, but his strong .369 OBP, despite a slightly lower .772 OPS this season, could make him an attractive addition to the Yankees’ lineup. His overall career performance suggests he would be a valuable asset.
Pete Alonso, even as a potential half-season rental, might find success in a Yankees lineup where he wouldn’t be the primary focus, thanks to the presence of stars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. However, the idea of the Mets trading Alonso to the Yankees is complex and uncertain.
Paul Goldschmidt presents a different challenge. His current .651 OPS is a career low, a significant drop from his usual .810 OPS or higher. At 36, a change of scenery might rejuvenate him, but his recent performance raises concerns about his consistency as a slugger.
If Rizzo manages to regain his form, these trade considerations could become irrelevant. However, the situation remains worth monitoring closely over the next six weeks as the Yankees evaluate their options for bolstering their first base position.
