The New York Yankees have been full of surprises since clinching the American League pennant last autumn, yet this iconic franchise isn’t satisfied just yet. After executing unexpected trades and major signings to secure Max Fried, Cody Bellinger, Paul Goldschmidt, and Devin Williams, the Yankees are once again at the top of the league with only a few months left before the trade deadline.
Despite these roster enhancements, there remains a glaring need as they aim to return to the Fall Classic. With franchise ace Gerrit Cole opting for Tommy John surgery, the starting rotation, apart from Fried and Carlos Rodon, has fallen short of championship caliber. As the Yankees contemplate strengthening their pitching staff before the trade deadline, they must consider both immediate and future needs.
Cole, in his first public comments post-surgery, informed MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch that he aims for a 14-month recovery, potentially marking his return in July 2026, barring any complications. NJ.com’s Bob Klapisch highlighted concerns that Cole might return with diminished velocity due to the wear on his arm. In a preliminary trade deadline forecast, Jomboy Media’s Joez McFly identified Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals as a potential acquisition to help the Yankees bridge the gap without Cole this year and beyond.
“The Yankees will trade for Sonny Gray,” predicted McFly. With a three-year, $75 million contract signed in 2023, Gray is owed $25 million this season, $35 million in 2026, and has a $30 million club option for 2027. If the Yankees deem him worthy of the financial commitment and any assets they must surrender, he could perfectly align with their timeline.
Gray has commenced this season with a 3.50 ERA across eight starts and has consistently made at least 24 starts over the past four seasons. A three-time All-Star in his 13-year career, he is precisely the type of reliable and efficient starter the Yankees could value during playoff scenarios for years to come.