The New York Yankees are eyeing one more trade. The team would ideally like to upgrade their starting pitching rotation, but signing a big name is not in the budget. According to general manager Brian Cashman, the Yankees are not done making moves this offseason after acquiring Starlin Castro and Andrew Miller could learn that the hard way as the closer is at the top of the trade rumors.
According to ESPN's Andrew Marchand, both Miller and Brett Gardner are available for deals from the Yankees. The closer is the easier player to deal as interest in him continues to grow. Could the Los Angeles Dodgers take a look? Originally, the Dodgers were set to acquire Aroldis Chapman, but an investigation has halted that deal. According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, Miller is now popping up on the Dodgers market considering he is relatively cheap, elite and does not come with baggage. The closer recorded 36 saves in his first season with the Yankees which is why the Dodgers are intrigued.
The New York Post is reporting the Yankees could deal Miller for Vincent Velasquez from the Houston Astros, a pitcher they had interest in during the year. Houston previously needed a closer and Miller is a top option. With three years and $27 million left on his team-friendly contract, the Post is reporting that the Yankees are not against keeping Miller around, but with the need of another elite pitcher looming, a trade might be best. UPDATE: Houston likely will not be trading for another closer, as they have already traded for Ken Giles from the Phillies. Check here for more on the trade.
Cashman is remaining adamant about not acquiring a big name on the market. The temptation is there. James Shields is available for a trade, while Ian Kennedy and Mike Leake are available for signing. The Yankees must determine just how confident they are in players like Michael Pineda and Ivan Nova along with CC Sabathia who is coming off a down season and a stint in rehab while Masahiro Tanaka nurses an elbow injury that required surgery. Acquiring another starter to help add insurance to the rotation is not a bad idea for the Yankees.
Right now, Miller and Gardner are the only players being shopped. According to the Post, the Yankees have no desire to move Rob Refsnyder even though Castro is taking his place. The same is being said about Greg Bird even though Mark Teixeira will return. Luis Severino is also not available. Cashman wants young players that he can control for a number of seasons and all three of them fit that bill.