Yankees send scouts to Cubs vs. Twins series amid trade interest in three players originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New York Yankees are behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East race right now, but they’re going to be trade deadline buyers as the AL is wide-open.
Advertisement
There are a few areas the Yankees could look to upgrade this summer, but the question remains how aggressive Brian Cashman will be at the deadline. He could pursue some top-tier names or go after more under-the-radar options.
But, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Yankees are reportedly keeping close tabs on three players, as they’ve sent scouts to the Minnesota Twins vs. Chicago Cubs series this weekend to scout three trade targets.
“Scouts from the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays were at Wrigley Field over the weekend to closely watch Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers, starter Joe Ryan, and outfielder Trevor Larnach,” Nightengale writes.
Advertisement
The Yankees and Rays are seemingly competing for the same trade targets, with Ryan Jeffers, the power-hitting catcher, as the one player who fits both teams perfectly.
Sending scouts to this series is a notable decision from the Yankees and Cashman, as it shows a serious interest in these Twins players.
The Cubs aren’t going to sell, so the Yankees are only there for the Twins trade options. Jeffers makes the most sense and would be a significant upgrade over Austin Wells behind the plate.
MORE: Mason Miller shares honest thoughts on Yankees trade rumors
But the Yankees could also be interested in Larnach as an outfield slugger who could give them some extra depth, and also insurance in case Aaron Judge‘s injury is more severe than let on.
Advertisement
Ryan would be the most expensive of this trio of Twins trade targets, and while the Yankees don’t really need another starter, he could be an option with Carlos Rodon injured, and if Ryan Weathers and Will Warren struggle.
Cashman and the Yankees have sent scouts to this weekend’s series between the Cubs and Twins, as they’re getting an in-person look at Joe Ryan, Trevor Larnach, and Ryan Jeffers as they prepare for the 2026 MLB trade deadline on August 3.
