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By Staff Writer with Agencies
NEW YORK – The New York Yankees face a major challenge after losing ace Gerrit Cole for the season following Tommy John surgery. With limited options on the market, general manager Brian Cashman has acknowledged that replacing Cole via trade is unlikely, but some insiders believe the team could still add a front-end starter.
“We’ll obviously rely on what we have and explore what’s outside at the same time,” Cashman told reporters, per MLB.com’s Brian Hoch. “At this time of year, it makes it difficult. Normally, more significant opportunities don’t exist until the trade deadline.”
Despite the slim market, MLB insider Robert Murray has suggested that St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Erick Fedde could be a potential target for the Yankees.
Could Fedde Be the Answer?
Fedde, 31, originally signed a two-year, $15 million deal with the Chicago White Sox last offseason before being traded to the Cardinals. He posted a strong 3.11 ERA in 21 starts before the trade but saw a slight dip to 3.72 ERA in 10 starts with St. Louis. He finished the season with 154 strikeouts, proving his reliability as a solid rotation piece.
Murray noted that the Cardinals, who are looking to shed payroll and create opportunities for younger arms, could be willing to move Fedde, making him an intriguing option for New York.
Yankees’ Rotation Depth Tested
With Cole out, the Yankees are left with Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman as the core of their rotation. While there is talent in the group, Cole’s absence leaves a void that might not be easy to fill internally.
Fedde may not be a true ace, but his ability to eat innings and provide stability could make him a valuable addition. Whether the Yankees make a move now or wait for the trade deadline remains to be seen, but Cashman and the front office will need to navigate a tough market to keep their pitching staff competitive.
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