The New York Yankees are in a tough spot. The team's offense has come to a halting stop and the Toronto Blue Jays are quickly gaining speed on their division lead after making bug upgrades at the trade deadline. The Yankees decision to stay put might be coming back to haunt them which could cause the team to make a move before the August waiver deadline. chase Utley and Martin Prado have the team's attention.
The Yankees are dealing with shortcomings from Stephen Drew and an injury to Dustin Ackley. That could force New York's hand to make a move despite not wanting to give up much in trade deals this season. If the lead becomes extremely tight, New York will have no choice.
According to the Boston Globe's Nick Cafardo, the Yankees are showing interest in Utley, sending scouts to watch his latest rehab performance. Healthy and ready to be called up, Utley could hit the waiver wire soon. Cafardo reports that the Phillies were originally reluctant to get rid of the second baseman, but with the downfall of the team it might be in their best interest to deal him. The issue is contracts. Drew has $5 million on his deal while Utley has $10 million. The Yankees would have to be certain Utley is the better upgrade over Drew before making a move.
Prado is another player potentially hitting the market. The Miami Marlins are aware interest is high in the utility man and could make him available. If Prado were to be placed on waivers, it is expected that plenty of teams will make a bid on him meaning the Yankees will have to come with a strong offer. Prado would be a big improvement over Stephen Drew and Brendan Ryan. Prado will not be cheap which could hurt the Yankees' overall interest in him.
There are still doubts regarding the pitching rotation the Yankees are working with. CC Sabathia has certainly bounced back, but the same cannot be said about Ivan Nova. Luis Severino has been a nice surprise for New York, but can he keep it up? The San Diego Padres continue to dangle James Shields and Ian Kennedy to teams before the August deadline. If the Blue Jays prove they are a real threat to the Yankees' playoff dreams, New York will make a move quickly regardless of the price.