The Yankees are barreling toward the trade deadline, knowing they’ll need one or two impact moves to keep pace in the AL East.
With multiple teams still on the fence about selling, the Yankees’ front office is carefully scanning rosters for affordable fits.
Harrison Bader could be an unexpected solution
Enter Harrison Bader, one of the Yankees’ own former spark plugs, now suiting up for the Minnesota Twins.
While he’s not the biggest bat on the market, Bader brings something the Yankees know all too well—game-changing defense in center field.
His ability to track down balls that look destined for the gap is like watching a hawk snatch prey in midair.
Bader’s 2025 season has quietly impressed
This season, Bader is hitting .254 with a .331 OBP and .436 slugging, which gives him a solid .767 OPS.
Even better, he’s posted a 115 wRC+, making him roughly 15% better than the average big leaguer at the plate.
He’s also been reliable with runners in scoring position and continues to rake against left-handed pitching, sporting a .746 OPS in those matchups.
Elite glove would give Yankees extra security
What might tip the scales for New York is Bader’s glove.
He already has seven outs above average in center this season, a reminder of how easily he can erase potential doubles.
The Yankees’ outfield defense could use another stabilizer, especially considering the inevitable injuries and Trent Grisham’s looming free agency.
Contract situation makes it an easier gamble
Bader is only on a one-year, $6.25 million deal that carries a mutual option for 2026.
If he feels comfortable back in pinstripes and wants stability, the Yankees could negotiate an extension to lock in an elite fourth outfielder.
It’s the kind of low-risk, medium-reward swing that can pay huge dividends come October.
The price tag shouldn’t scare Brian Cashman
Because of Bader’s contract and role, it likely wouldn’t take a top prospect to get Minnesota to budge.
A mid-tier arm or depth piece could be enough, letting the Yankees hold onto their most prized minor league talents.
That’s huge considering how much they’ll need those same prospects if bigger deals for infield bats or bullpen help materialize.
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Could Bader replace Grisham long-term?
Looking ahead, it’s entirely possible Bader could step right into Grisham’s shoes if the Yankees let him walk in free agency — albiet being a righty.
Bader provides Gold Glove defense, which makes the idea even more attractive for a team built around run prevention.
If the Yankees really want to bolster their October odds, grabbing someone like Harrison Bader might be the smartest “under the radar” move possible.
His defense alone could save critical playoff runs, and his steady bat against lefties makes him more than just a glove-first luxury. For Brian Cashman, it’s an intriguing reunion to consider.
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