Yankees Pursue Bullpen Help Before Trade Deadline

The New York Yankees have bolstered their infield by acquiring Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies and Amed Rosario from the Washington Nationals, and are now turning their attention to improving their bullpen ahead of the July 31 trade deadline. The team is targeting left-handed relievers from the St. Louis Cardinals, specifically JoJo Romero and Steven Matz, with Matz's prior New York experience seen as a bonus. The Yankees are also interested in Colorado Rockies right-hander Jake Bird, valued for his strikeout ability and years of team control, though he may come at a high trade cost. Injuries to starters Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt have intensified the Yankees' need for pitching depth. Despite remaining in the Wild Card race, the Cardinals are reportedly open to selling. The next few days are expected to be decisive as the Yankees seek to strengthen their postseason chances.