Yankees Pursue Multiple Pitching Upgrades Ahead July Trade Deadline

The New York Yankees are actively seeking to strengthen their pitching rotation and offensive lineup ahead of the July 31 trade deadline, driven by injuries and inconsistent performances. With key starters like Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt sidelined due to Tommy John surgeries and others like Max Fried dealing with injuries, the Yankees are exploring options including acquiring Arizona Diamondbacks' ace Merrill Kelly, who has a solid 3.34 ERA and postseason experience, to bolster their rotation alongside Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, and Ryan Yarbrough. Additionally, the Yankees are considering bullpen reinforcements such as Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals, whose elite slider could provide crucial high-leverage outs despite his struggles as a closer this season. On the offensive side, the team is linked to Baltimore Orioles' Ryan O’Hearn, a left-handed power hitter who could thrive at Yankee Stadium and help address the Yankees' recent offensive slump. Another pitching depth option suggested is Sean Newcomb, a former Red Sox pitcher now excelling in long relief for the Athletics, offering the Yankees a low-cost, potentially beneficial addition. Overall, the Yankees are poised to make strategic moves to solidify their roster for a strong postseason push.