The New York Yankees recently made a notable roster decision to demote starter Luis Gil to the minors and promote outfielder Jasson Dominguez to the big league level. This recent decision, which came after a poor start on Sunday, could lead to trade rumors spiralling around Luis Gil.
When Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon return, the chances of Gil being a starter of need will decrease drastically. Could the Yankees potentially trade for San Diego Padres reliever Adrian Morejon?
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Yankees Trade Idea Lands Adrian Morejon in the Bronx
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 15: Luis Gil #81 of the New York Yankees throws a pitch during the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Yankee Stadium on April 15, 2026 in New York City. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
The New York Yankees have been one of the most complete MLB teams this season, and with the first month of the season winding down, they should be considered favorites to win the AL East and potentially make a big October run. However, one piece that the Yankees could add to make the team just a little bit better is a reliever, and with Luis Gil’s struggles, it makes sense to just trade him while there’s still the chance.
In this MLB mock trade, the Yankees could think about making a deal for Morejon, and dealing away Luis Gil.
Per ESPN’s David Shoenfield, Adrian Morejon is a top trade candidate for the Padres:
“That might mean dealing from the team’s strength to help acquire a starter or a hitter. Morejon has been hit around so far, but he was one of the top lefty relievers during the past two seasons and made the All-Star team in 2025. Because he’s a free agent [to be], the Padres might look to flip him.”
Adrian Morejon has been a very solid reliever in MLB for the last few seasons.
Conversely, Schoenfield noted that the Yankees’ biggest need could be a reliever, as they lost Devin Williams and Luke Weaver in the offseason after revamping the bullpen last MLB trade deadline. Those proved to be good subtractions, but also leaves the door open for New York to go out and acquire another proven arm.
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Who Says No to This Hypothetical?
This should be a no-brainer for the Yankees. Luis Gil has not performed well since dealing with several injuries, but leaving him in Triple-A isn’t ideal for his development, and it seems like they will just stock him in the minors, it could make more sense to just trade him.
It’s worth a thought at least, especially with the returns of Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon, which is on top of the fact that Gil is already not being productive during his MLB starts.
Yankees fans may also be deterred when his start days come.
Adrian Morejon As a Reliever
GettyYankees urged to acquire Adrian Morejon
In 2025, Morejon was named to the All-Star team, and turned in a stellar season.
He’s an eight-year MLB veteran reliever. In 2025, he pitched 73.2 innings and posted a 2.08 ERA with 70 strikeouts.
In 13.2 innings this season, Morejon has a 5.93 ERA and 15 strikeouts. But he’s certainly due for some positive regression here soon, and it could be a good chance to buy low on him.
Being that Luis Gil holds little trade value, the Yankees may need to throw in a prospect or another piece to complete a deal.
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Yankees-Padres Trade Idea Offloads Luis Gil for All-Star Reliever