Yankees' polarizing star generating trade interest at deadline, per insider

Kevin Hickey

Yankees' polarizing star generating trade interest at deadline, per insider image

New York Yankees left fielder Alex Verdugo is reportedly generating some interest from other teams ahead of the Major League Baseball trade deadline Tuesday.

Though it would be a mild surprise if the Yankees shipped Verdugo off halfway through his walk year, it seems there's a chance his time in pinstripes could be short-lived.

According to Francys Romero, some MLB teams have inquired about a potential deadline trade for the polarizing outfielder.

While Verdugo won over the hearts of the Yankees faithful with his charismatic charm and positive presence in the clubhouse, his performance in the box has left much to be desired.

Even though he's shown life over the last week with a .970 OPS in his last six games, his 89 OPS+ this season is far lower than what the Yankees thought they were getting from Verdugo.

He's been a strong addition to the outfield, providing above-average defense in left field, but that hasn't balanced out his struggle at the plate for the two-month stretch of June and July.

The Yankees would need to find his replacement somehow — potentially calling up Jasson Dominguez — but it's a deal that could happen with a few hours left until the deadline.

The Yankees could hope that Verdguo's recent resurgence will kickstart a strong final two months of the season, or they may look to cut their losses at the deadline.

Kevin Hickey

Kevin Hickey Photo

Hickey was previously the managing editor of USA Today's Colts Wire. His work is also featured as a fantasy football analyst for The Huddle. A career .232 hitter, he is an avid reader of Spider-Man comics, an admirer of the James Webb Space Telescope, and a keen enthusiast of Ma’s sauce. You can find him on Twitter/X @KevinHickey11