Three Starting Pitchers the Yankees Could Target After Clarke Schmidt Injury
The New York Yankees have been hit hard by injuries to their starting rotation in 2025. Gerrit Cole underwent Tommy John surgery before the season began. Luis Gil, last year’s AL Rookie of the Year, has been sidelined with a lat strain and has yet to begin rehab. Marcus Stroman missed time but recently returned. Just as he came back, another blow came: Clarke Schmidt will miss the rest of the season — and part of 2026 — after also needing Tommy John surgery.
What was expected to be one of the strongest rotations in baseball — with Cole, Gil, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and Schmidt — has now been reduced to just Fried and Rodón. As a result, the Yankees have struggled, going 9-16 over their last 25 games. They are currently three games behind the Blue Jays in the AL East.
With the trade deadline approaching, General Manager Brian Cashman is under pressure to find another starting pitcher. Here are three possible trade targets the Yankees could pursue to bolster their rotation:
3. Mitch Keller (Pittsburgh Pirates)
Despite a 3-10 record, Keller has been effective this season with a 3.64 ERA. The Pirates’ weak offense hasn’t helped his win-loss record, but he’s pitched well. Keller, signed through 2028, could slot in as the Yankees’ No. 3 starter behind Fried and Rodón. When Gil returns, the team could even consider a six-man rotation.
Pittsburgh may be looking to cut payroll, and Keller — their highest-paid player — could be moved. A possible trade might include Yankees prospect Spencer Jones, who has excelled in the minors this year. Given the Yankees’ crowded outfield, Jones may not have a long-term spot in the Bronx, making him a trade asset.
2. Seth Lugo (Kansas City Royals)
The Royals are reportedly considering selling at the deadline, and Lugo could be one of their trade pieces. He has a player option after 2025, which he’s likely to decline, making him a potential rental. The 35-year-old has been one of the more consistent pitchers in the league over the past two seasons.
Lugo has experience pitching in New York from his seven years with the Mets, during which he posted a 3.48 ERA. His familiarity with the market and strong performance make him a logical target for the Yankees.
1. Joe Ryan (Minnesota Twins)
Ryan has been outstanding this season, posting a 2.75 ERA and a 0.87 WHIP. At 29 years old and under team control through 2027, he’s likely to be one of the most in-demand arms at the trade deadline.
Acquiring Ryan would require a significant trade package, likely involving Spencer Jones and additional top prospects. Still, with the rotation in disarray due to injuries, the Yankees may need to consider making a big move to remain competitive.
