After losing out on Juan Soto to the New York Mets, the New York Yankees have been highly active in both the trade and free agent markets. They’ve already made significant moves by signing starting pitcher Max Fried to an eight-year deal and trading for reliever Devin Williams. However, the Yankees appear far from done, with their next potential move involving Cleveland Guardians’ All-Star first baseman Josh Naylor.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Yankees are exploring a trade for Naylor as they continue to bolster their roster. However, this pursuit may hinge on their ongoing negotiations with the Chicago Cubs for former MVP Cody Bellinger. Heyman reported on X (formerly Twitter) that there’s still a financial gap in talks between the Yankees and Cubs, describing the situation as a standoff, saying, “It’s a matter of ‘who blinks first,’ if ever.” If New York succeeds in landing Bellinger, a trade for Naylor might no longer be necessary.
If the Yankees do acquire Naylor, it would be a major shake-up for fans of both New York and Cleveland. Naylor’s history with Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, stemming from the 2022 playoffs when Naylor taunted Cole with his “rock the baby” celebration, adds an intriguing layer to the speculation. Yankees fans later jeered Naylor during his return to Yankee Stadium, further fueling the rivalry.
The 27-year-old Naylor is coming off a career year, hitting 31 home runs with 108 RBIs, making him a desirable trade target. For the Yankees, adding him would represent a substantial upgrade at first base. However, such a move would leave the Guardians with a significant hole in their lineup. With Naylor being a centerpiece in trade rumors this offseason, Cleveland is reportedly open to dealing him for the right package. If the trade happens, it could have a lasting impact on both teams’ lineups and postseason aspirations.
