**Yankees Considered Potential Destination for Trade Deadline’s Top Power Hitter**
As the New York Mets may become sellers again at the trade deadline, Pete Alonso, their powerful first baseman, could be on the move. There’s speculation that Alonso might switch boroughs and end up with the New York Yankees.
Jim Bowden of The Athletic identified six potential teams for Alonso if the Mets decide to trade him. “Pete Alonso is expected to be the biggest power bat traded at the deadline,” Bowden stated. “The Astros, Mariners, Yankees, Giants, Cubs, and Twins are possible landing spots for the three-time All-Star. Despite a potential trade, the Mets plan to try to re-sign Alonso in the offseason.”
While Alonso has faced some offensive struggles this season, he remains a top power hitter with a .240/.321/.476 slash line, 14 home runs, 16 doubles, 32 RBI, and 37 runs scored in 277 plate appearances.
**Alonso as a Major Upgrade for the Yankees**
The Yankees, currently among the top teams in baseball, could benefit from Alonso’s power. Despite holding a 2.5-game lead over the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East, recent play has not affected their position. The Yankees have won eight of their last 10 games and boast a 47-21 record.
The team might seek an upgrade at first base, where Anthony Rizzo and second baseman Gleyber Torres have underperformed. Bowden has suggested the Yankees might explore this option, noting their need for more offensive production from these positions.
Alonso’s numbers, though not his best, still surpass Rizzo’s .224/.285/.339 line, with seven home runs and 25 RBI in 267 plate appearances, making Alonso a significant upgrade.
**Yankees Need to Stay Aggressive**
The Yankees, despite being a top team, face stiff competition with their slim lead over the Orioles. The Yankees’ 2.5-game lead is the smallest in any division, with Baltimore proving to be formidable after a 101-win season in 2022.
FanGraphs gives the Yankees a 73.5% chance to win the division compared to the Orioles’ 26.2%, but anything can happen. The return of ace Gerrit Cole will bolster the team, but the Yankees aim for a deep playoff run and a championship. Suboptimal production from Torres and Rizzo could hinder these aspirations, making it crucial for general manager Brian Cashman to stay aggressive in strengthening the roster before the trade deadline.
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