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The New York Yankees have had their share of problems this year. Many of their best players have made trips to the DL at least a few times over the course of the season, and we’re only halfway through. What’s worse is that they’re nearly in the cellar of the AL East. They need help, and I think picking up a good pitcher might make a huge difference.
Word is that the Milwaukee Brewers are shopping ace Yovani Gallardo. The Yankees can’t miss this opportunity. Gallardo is a guy with dominant stuff; he’s struck out at least 200 batters in each of the past four seasons. He also posted 16 wins last year, and 17 the year before. Though he seems to have regressed a bit this year, I wouldn’t be too worried. The guy has a 3.69 career ERA, and he’s only 27.
Who should the Yankees trade to get Gallardo? I think the underachieving Phil Hughes makes sense as part of a package–that is, if the Brewers are willing to pick him up. Vernon Wells is another guy who doesn’t seem to have a spot on the team for much longer, especially when Curtis Granderson returns. Even prospect Zoilo Almonte might go if they elect to keep Wells. The Yankees often trade prospects for veterans, and I could certainly seem them doing so here.
Yovani Gallardo might solve one of the Yankees problems. The trade deadline is still a long way away, but it never hurts to start thinking early.
Kyle Massa is a New York Yankees writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @kylemassa, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.
