The New York Yankees are gearing up for Opening Day coming off of a relatively quiet MLB offseason.
Fans were frustrated with Brian Cashman’s lack of aggression during MLB free agency. He opted to take the “run it back” option for the most part. The biggest move of the offseason for the Yankees was to re-sign star outfielder Cody Bellinger.
Last season, New York wasn’t far off from being a World Series contender. Cashman is banking on players like Gerrit Cole coming back at full health and helping to push the Yankees over the top.
That approach could pay off for New York. Or, it’s possible that Cashman could look to add to the roster via the trade market ahead of the deadline.
One potential name to watch for the Yankees will be St. Louis Cardinals star relief pitcher JoJo Romero.
New York Yankees Linked to Trade Pitch for Cardinals’ JoJo Romero
On SI’s Zach Pressnell has suggested a potential trade package between the Yankees and Cardinals for Romero. His deal would see New York trading left-hander Kyle Carr and left-hander Brock Selvidge for Romero.
“After losing players like Devin Williams and Luke Weaver, they need to make a big addition,” Pressnell wrote about the Yankees. “Romero is the perfect target because he won’t require a blockbuster prospect return, but the talent is enough to make a deal worthwhile.”
He also revealed why the Cardinals would part with Romero for this trade package.
“While losing Romero would be a crushing blow, it doesn’t impact the Cardinals long term future in a negative way. They’re not trying to win right now, so having a shutdown closer doesn’t mean as much as it does to a contending team.”
What Would JoJo Romero Bring to the Yankees’ Bullpen?
During the 2025 MLB season with St. Louis, Romero appeared in 65 games. He compiled a 4-6 record to go along with a 2.07 ERA, a 1.25 WHIP, a 1.9 K/BB ratio, 61 innings pitched, eight saves, 24 holds, and a blown save.
Romero has become an elite reliever over the last few years. He could be the missing piece for New York’s bullpen to become a top-tier unit.
At 29 years old, the Yankees could acquire him to be a long-term option. Or, it’s possible that he could end up being a one-year rental.
It will be interesting to see what the team chooses to do as the season moves forward. Romero is worth keeping a close eye on as a potential trade target for New York.
Yankees-Cardinals Linked to Trade Pitch Featuring Elite Relief Pitcher