The New York Yankees have found an offense against one of the worst teams in baseball. The Yankees came alive at the plate against the Braves, but that does not mean much considering what Atlanta has done this season. The Yankees are still fighting for the lead in the American League East and they still have questions heading into the postseason which might have to be met at the waiver deadline.
There are options to improve the Yankees at the waiver deadline. While general manager Brian Cashman has stated he is not seeking out moves, he is interested in improving the team. Right now, there are major questions at the pitching rotation with the health of CC Sabathia and the struggles of Ivan Nova and Michael Pineda while Masahiro Tanaka is hot and cold. With the Yankess not able to rely on Pineda and Nova to be threats every time, could the team make moves for someone like James Shields or Ian Kennedy?
The Yankees have explored starting pitching options. According to the New York Post, the Yankees eyed everyone from David Price to Johnny Cueto at the trade deadline. There is a clear need for help and both Shields and Kennedy could come cheap. For now, the Yankees have a rising star in Luis Severino who needs to keep pitching the way he has been. Teammates have been very impressed with the rookie.
"He was lights-out," catcher Brian McCann said, via ESPN.com. "He did whatever he wanted to do tonight. Mixed it up, bounced in and out, up and down, kept them off balance. Great performance."
The Yankees are also considering support for Stephen Drew and Brendan Ryan. According to the Denver Post, Jose Reyes would love a return to the Big Apple. Martin Pardo could be available with the Miami Marlins. Starlin Castro has also cleared waivers. Cashman told MLB.com, that the Yankees have more faith in Drew than anyone available on the market which might remove them from any potential deals.
New York could be holding out to bring up Rob Refsnyder at September call ups. The infielder has been a star this year both in the major league and in the minors. The Yankees have been holding him back, trying to be patient and let him develop more. However, they are running out of time with both Drew and Ryan struggling. If no one comes on board at the waiver deadline, Refsnyder could be the favorite
