Yankees’ Hopes of Replacing Gerrit Cole Just Took a Major Hit
Last winter, the Yankees pursued a game-changing move to shake off the perception that they were hesitant to make bold decisions or properly support Aaron Judge. This spring, they might need another major acquisition—but not to gain an advantage. Instead, they need a blockbuster deal just to stay competitive.
Unfortunately, it appears the Padres won’t be able to assist them a second time.
Back in December, the Yankees sent a pitching-heavy trade package to San Diego in exchange for Juan Soto and Trent Grisham, a huge move that solidified their standing in the American League. Among the players they parted with, Michael King developed as expected, while top pitching prospect Drew Thorpe was quickly flipped for Dylan Cease of the White Sox. Randy Vásquez and Jhony Brito, two additional arms, had inconsistent seasons but still contributed to San Diego’s success.
Gerrit Cole’s recommendation for Tommy John surgery has sent the Yankees into disarray, and finding an ace in March is no easy task. While Vásquez and Brito provided depth, New York already has plenty of that. What they lack is a true No. 1 starter to pair with Max Fried, and both Cease and King—who were rumored to be “available” earlier in the offseason—could have been temporary solutions.
That’s why Sunday’s report felt particularly ill-timed. According to sources, AJ Preller is no longer considering moving either pitcher (neither of whom would have fit easily into the Yankees’ tight budget anyway). The Yankees are back to square one before even finalizing their plans.
Yankees Won’t Be Landing Dylan Cease or Michael King as Cole’s Replacement
Preller now “prefers to keep his team intact,” per The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Patrick Mooney—and why wouldn’t he, with Opening Day so close? Meanwhile, the Marlins may entertain offers for Sandy Alcantara later, as they seem to be managing his innings to maximize trade value, but they won’t deal him before the deadline. That could be useful down the line, but it won’t provide immediate stability, and a fierce bidding war will follow.
Ultimately, the Yankees’ best bet is to hope their current depth holds up and that Luis Gil can return to make an impact in the second half. If the Padres aren’t an option, it’s hard to see anyone else stepping in to help.