The trade deadline has been the talk of Major League Baseball and the Yankees for the last several weeks, but it may not be a trade that makes headlines.
According to Jon Heyman, a domino effect could happen in New York if the Yankees were to become sellers. This would end with high-priced veterans being cut, including Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira.
“Some New York Yankees people have discussed whether, if they decide to sell, they might consider releasing great veterans Mark Teixeria and Alex Rodriguez to get on with the rebuild.” – HeymanÂ
A-Rod is under contract for the 2017 season and is slated to make at least $20 million. He is nearing the 700 home run mark with 696 in his career. He also has incentives if he reached the 714 plateau. While the season has not gone in favor of A-Rod, he did show his power the other day with a solo home run. However, he is batting at a .213 clip with nine long balls and 59 strikeouts compared to 14 walks.
Teixeria is in the last season of an eight-year deal, and the Yankees have prospect Greg Bird at first base who is recovering from injury. The switch-hitter is batting just .189 and has fought the injury bug all season.
Both players’ playing time has dipped this season, and neither player has talked about the possibility of being cut. “All I’m worried about is winning tonight,” said A-Rod. “The beauty of today’s game is a lot of teams feel they can be in the playoffs. I feel we’re one of them that can.”
A-Rod is a pure DH at this point in his career but poses a threat against left-handed pitchers.
Teixeira has been a gold glover much of his career and is also believed to be a favorite of GM Brian Cashman, according to Heyman.
No trades have been made by the Yankees up to this point in the season, but if the Yankees become sellers, the Bronx may have a different look to it come August.
