The New York Yankees are looking to boost their bullpen before the MLB trade deadline, but could watch a top target head over to a surprise NL contender instead.
The Yankees have been connected to San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller, who is expected to hit the trade block close to a year after he landed with his team in a blockbuster trade. Though insiders have indicated that the Yankees could be aggressive in landing Miller, one reporter believes he’ll make his way to Pittsburgh instead.
Pirates Predicted to Beat Out Yankees on Mason Miller
MLB.com’s Jared Greenspan pegged the Pittsburgh Pirates as the “perfect” destination for Miller, who he called the “hottest name swirling in the rumor mill” aside from Detroit Tigers starter Tarik Skubal.
Greenspan added that Miller would likely fetch a high price, especially after the Padres dealt away their No. 2 overall prospect at last season’s trade deadline.
“When it comes down to a fit, why not the Pirates?” Greenspan wrote. “Pittsburgh is desperate to end a 10-year playoff drought and, thanks to a fun young core and some shrewd offseason moves, the franchise is firmly in the mix for a postseason spot. The Pirates sure could use a right-handed reliever; the club recently cut ties with its Opening Day closer, Dennis Santana, after he pitched to a 6.05 ERA in 44 games.”
There have been several other teams listed as likely suitors for Miller, which could give the Padres the leeway to set a high asking price.
Yankees Still Considered Top Contender for Mason Miller
The Yankees may still be the most motivated team when it comes to Miller. USA Today insider Bob Nightengale reported last week that the team was in hot pursuit of the Padres closer and could be particularly motivated given the extended absence of Aaron Judge and the need to stay afloat until he returns.
“The Yankees are desperate for a backup catcher and have their eyes on Ryan Jeffers from the Minnesota Twins, crave All-Star closer Mason Miller of the San Diego Padres, and would love to find another bat,” Nightengale wrote. “Meanwhile, theyâll be praying Aaron Judge returns before October to save their season.”
Landing Miller would not be cheap. Chris Kirschner of The Athletic put together a mock trade proposal that would have the Yankees shipping away two major leaguers and two top prospects.
“Miller is under contract through 2029, and thereâs no guarantee San Diego Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller will trade him at the deadline. He might have to be blown away by a package to consider moving Miller,” Kirschner wrote.”
Kirschner suggested the Yankees could land Miller for starting pitcher Will Warren and shortstop outfielder Jasson DomÃnguez along with prospects Dax Kilby and Ben Hess.
“In this proposal, the Padres would receive two major leaguers, Warren and DomÃnguez, and two prospects,” Kirschner wrote. “Warren has the potential to be a mid-rotation starter, while DomÃnguez has not yet lived up to his prospect hype. Kilby is one of the Yankeesâ best infield prospects, while Hess projects as a back-end starter with big strikeout numbers.”
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