Yankees could target $80 million Braves slugger to boost lineup

The New York Yankees have dealt with various injuries this season. Their starting rotation was hit hard in spring training, and they missed Giancarlo Stanton for several months.

The trade deadline is fast approaching, and New York might be in the market for some reinforcements. Another bat wouldn't hurt to add.

The Yankees should be looking for some big upgrades if they want to make a return trip to the World Series.

Nick Selbe of Sports Illustrated listed Marcell Ozuna as a trade candidate and had the Yankees as a potential suitor.

"It’s hard to imagine the Braves waving the white flag unless things really unravel, especially after they won the 2021 World Series with a late-season surge sparked by additions from GM Alex Anthopoulos. But if Atlanta ends up dealing anyone, it’ll probably be their only pending free agent of much value," Selbe writes.

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Ozuna is hitting .247/.378/.404 with 11 home runs, 40 RBI and a .781 OPS. The three-time All-Star certainly has taken a few steps back in 2025.

However, he hit 39 homers last year, drove in 104 runs and had a .302/.378/.546 slash line plus a .925 OPS, so there is still value in his bat.

The Yankees would have to give up a decent haul of prospects if they want to land Ozuna via a trade, as he is a rental piece and will have a competitive market.

But the dimensions of Yankee Stadium are favorable to hitters, and Ozuna could benefit from playing in a hitter-friendly environment such as the Bronx.

With the Braves struggling to stay in contention, it might make sense for the team to trade him and capitalize on his value while they still can. He could significantly boost the Yankees lineup if acquired.

We'll see if the Bronx Bombers show any interest.

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