The New York Yankees and New York Mets could soon find themselves in direct competition over a key trade target this summer. While both clubs have had solid stretches of play, they also share some pressing roster needs as the trade deadline approaches. Chief among these is bolstering their starting pitching rotations, but infield help could also be high on the priority list.
For the Yankees, any infield addition would likely be at second or third base, enabling Jazz Chisholm Jr. to slot in at the other position. The Mets, on the other hand, might be inclined to look for a third baseman who can provide more consistent production than Brett Baty. Though Baty has excelled at Triple-A, he has yet to translate that success to the majors.
According to CBS Sports, the player who could spark a bidding war between the New York rivals is Colorado Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon. They recently named McMahon as perhaps the top trade asset available this summer, highlighting his reliable if unspectacular performance. He’s on pace for a fifth straight season with an OPS+ hovering in the mid-90s and remains a strong defensive third baseman. However, CBS Sports noted the question of how McMahon’s offensive numbers might look away from Coors Field’s hitter-friendly environment.
McMahon is 30 and under contract for just two more seasons, so the Rockies could be motivated to deal him now before his trade value declines. CBS Sports listed the Yankees, Mets, and Red Sox as possible suitors.
Yet there are differing opinions on whether the Mets are targeting third base at all. The Athletic reported that the Mets’ primary focus could instead be on upgrading center field and acquiring bullpen depth, though the idea of pursuing a top-end starting pitcher hasn’t been ruled out. This suggests the Mets and Yankees could still clash over pitchers even if the Mets step back from the infield market.
The Rockies’ intentions remain uncertain. While Colorado is widely expected to be sellers this deadline, they have made unpredictable decisions in the past. Even though moving McMahon makes sense given his age and contract status, it’s possible they may opt to keep him, reducing the odds that either New York team will get the chance to make a deal.
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