The New York Yankees may be considering a switch from Anthony Rizzo before the trade deadline due to his struggles this season, which led to him being benched on June 9 and 10. Despite leading the league in runs scored, there’s a feeling that the Yankees’ lineup lacks depth beyond standout players like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report suggested a trade scenario bringing Pete Alonso to the Bronx in exchange for three players.
Rymer noted that while the Yankees have excelled in scoring runs, there’s a noticeable gap in their lineup beyond their top hitters. Aaron Judge and Juan Soto shine, but finding a satisfactory answer for the team’s next-best hitter remains a challenge.
Although the New York Mets may be hesitant to trade Alonso to their cross-town rivals in the Subway Series, their stance could change if they fall out of contention in the weeks leading up to the deadline, potentially prompting them to consider such a trade.
Trade Proposal Lands Alonso in Exchange for Prospect Pitcher
Rymer’s proposed trade package would see Pete Alonso joining the Yankees, along with bullpen reinforcement. In exchange, the Yankees would send their No. 3 prospect, Chase Hampton, to the Mets, along with acquiring Adam Ottavino and cash considerations.
Hampton, currently in Double-A Somerset, is ranked as MLB Pipeline’s No. 73 overall prospect and is considered the Yankees’ top pitching prospect. Despite his promising potential, Rymer notes that parting with young pitchers like Hampton might not be ideal for the Yankees, especially considering recent trades and the future prospects of their pitching rotation, which includes aging versions of Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón.
While the Yankees would be losing their top pitching prospect, acquiring Alonso could provide the boost needed to pursue a World Series title. Alonso, although batting .233/.315/.459 in 67 games this season, brings formidable power to the plate, with 14 home runs compared to Rizzo’s eight. However, it’s noted that Alonso’s career batting average of .249 might not be stellar, but his ability to hit for power elevates his status as an elite player. Additionally, with Alonso set to become a free agent at the season’s end and a remaining salary of approximately $12 million out of his $20.5 million contract, the surplus value attributed to him is estimated at $7.5 million, according to Baseball Trade Values. While this doesn’t equate to acquiring a top-tier prospect, it still holds value.
Ottavino, despite his 5.55 ERA, would offer the Yankees a right-handed bullpen option capable of neutralizing right-handed batters, adding depth and versatility to the team’s pitching arsenal
Rizzo’s Struggles With the Yankees
Rizzo, with a batting average of .221 and a slugging percentage of just .344 this season, remains a valued presence in the Yankees’ clubhouse at 34 years old. He secured a two-year, $40 million deal in 2022, including a $6 million buyout on a $17 million club option for 2025.
However, Rizzo’s future with the team is not solely contingent on his performance on the field but also intertwines with the Yankees’ financial considerations and their interest in acquiring Juan Soto. Owner Hal Steinbrenner expressed concerns about the sustainability of their current $300 million payroll during the owners’ meetings in May, citing the burden of the luxury tax.
Given the Yankees’ apparent commitment to financial prudence, Rizzo may find himself sacrificed in favor of pursuing Soto and reducing payroll. Without Steinbrenner’s worries about the $300 million payroll, the team might have more flexibility. Chris Kirschner of The Athletic noted this dynamic, suggesting that Rizzo could be collateral damage in the Yankees’ pursuit of Soto if they remain focused on cost-saving measures.
