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9 hours ago
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The New York Yankees may be trying to bolster their starting rotation at the trade deadline. However, they can forget about getting Seth Lugo in the Bronx.
Lugo was an All-Star last season and was the Cy Young Award runner-up in the American League. He is having another stellar season and was a candidate to opt out of his contract, making him a trade chip right now. However, the Kansas City Royals have agreed to an extension with him, taking him off the market, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.
"BREAKING: Right-hander Seth Lugo and the Kansas City Royals are finalizing a multiyear contract extension, sources tell ESPN," wrote Passan. "One of the best potential trade candidates this deadline season -- and top free agent arms this winter -- instead will remain in Kansas City."
The Yankees have been without Gerrit Cole all season. Luis Gil is still working his way back, Ryan Yarbrough is still injured and Clarke Schmidt's season is over. Lugo could have been a great addition for the Yankees. FanSided's Joseph Kallan suggested the Yankees go after Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates as a pivot.
"Mitch Keller may have a 4–10 record, but don’t get it twisted," wrote Kallan. "He owns a 3.53 ERA on the season, and he’s been red-hot in July with a 2.10 ERA this month. Armed with a six-pitch mix and one of the league’s best fastball run values, Keller offers exactly the kind of stability the Yankees crave."
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Keller signed a five-year, $77 million deal in 2024. He is more than just a rental and could stabilize the rotation for the rest of the year. Yarbrough was pitching well as a starter before his injury, and if he is able to come back, as well as Gil, the Yankees would have Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Gil, Keller and Yarbrough in the rotation.
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