The New York Yankees may enter the weeks leading up to the MLB Trade Deadline with a focus on improving the first base position.
While fan-favorite Anthony Rizzo looks to work out of his current struggles, the Yankees may be forced to consider trading for an upgrade at the position over the next six weeks.
According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Yankees were linked to several potential trade candidates, including the likes of Vladmir Guerrero Jr., Pete Alonso and Paul Goldschmidt.
Depending on what teams fall out of the race, whether certain players sign contract extensions and other factors, impact players such as Pete Alonso or Vladimir Guerrero Jr. could become available at first base.
An in-division trade for Guerrero seems unlikely. His .772 OPS through 69 games is lower than his .838 career mark, but he's still sporting a strong .369 OBP. Still, his presence in the lineup would be extremely intriguing.
Even for a half-year rental, Alonso might thrive not having to be the star in the lineup. With Aaron Judge and Juan Soto locked into an MVP race, Alonso could benefit from a different type of lineup protection.
Whether the Mets would trade Alonso to the Yankees—even for half of a season—is an entirely different conversation.
Goldschmidt would be a somewhat risky addition considering his career-low .651 OPS through 66 games. He hasn't dipped below a .810 OPS in his career. Maybe a change of scenery would help the 36-year-old, but he's not hitting like the slugger most expect him to be.
A resurgence from Rizzo may make this all a moot point, but it certainly will be worth monitoring over the next six weeks.
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