Yankees predicted to trade for Cubs' $85M Silver Slugger finalist to replace injured Aaron Judge

Yankees predicted to trade for Cubs’ $85M Silver Slugger finalist to replace injured Aaron Judge originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The New York Yankees have moved into first place in the AL East for the first time in quite a while this season. They have been playing better recently after a somewhat sluggish start.

However, the Yankees suffered a major setback a week ago when they lost their best player, Aaron Judge. Judge is expected to miss significant time with a stress fracture in his rib.

“Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge said the stress fracture in his right rib stems from him diving for a ball in late April and that he played through discomfort for over a month until the pain became unbearable over the weekend in Sacramento. The three-time American League MVP declined to discuss a timetable for return to play,” ESPN’s Jorge Castillo wrote.

With Judge sidelined, the Yankees could look to add a power bat at the trade deadline. Sports Illustrated’s Patrick McAvoy believes Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki could be a potential target.

“The Yankees just lost Aaron Judge and it’s unclear when he will be back. With New York, it’s a simpler fit. With Judge out, the Yankees could use another star and Suzuki would easily fill that role,” McAvoy wrote.

Adding Suzuki would significantly boost the Yankees’ lineup and outfield depth. New York could ultimately stand pat at the deadline, but if they do make a move, adding an outfielder remains a realistic possibility.

“If they do (make trades), then it’s still about October, and for that part of the calendar, they might look at adding another righty bat, perhaps a third baseman and, certainly, some bullpen help,” ESPN’s Bradford Doolittle wrote.

Suzuki has been a Silver Slugger finalist in two separate seasons, showcasing his power at the plate—exactly the type of production the Yankees need in Judge’s absence.

Suzuki is currently on an $85 million contract and will become a free agent after this season. That makes him an appealing rental option for New York. There is minimal long-term commitment involved, and his offensive ability would provide an immediate boost to the Yankees’ roster.

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