Aaron Boone Discusses Yankees’ Trade Deadline Mentality Amid Trades’ Troubles

Before the New York Yankees’ home game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday, manager Aaron Boone was asked if he would talk to a player in trouble if there was speculation that the Yankees would consider trading that player’s position.

“No,” Boone responded, according to SNY. “That’s… you start speculating and hypothesizing and this and that, so no.

“Look, everyone is aware to varying degrees of where we are in the agenda and the nature of the business,” Boone continued. “That there are going to be conversations. And it affects people in different ways. Some people are driven by it and motivated by it and they relish it and love it. For some guys, it can add a layer of fear.”

The Yankees have made it known that they are looking for an elite reliever to bolster the back end of their bullpen, with Oakland Athletics star Mason Miller and Texas Rangers closer Kirby Yates among the prospects being linked.

Given the disappointing performances of several starting pitchers, New York will also likely look to hire a consistent starting pitcher, such as Cubs right-hander Jameson Taillon or, ideally, Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.

But the unexpected struggles of Gleyber Torres and DJ LeMahieu throughout the season have also left the Yankees looking to get more production out of the infield, a need that could also be addressed in trade deadline talks.

Boone noted that just because a player has reacted a certain way to trade rumors in the past doesn’t mean he will react the same way now.

“I’m sure it’s different for guys every year. That’s just the nature of things right now,” Boone said. “But no, I’m not going to get into what could be possible because I have no idea.”

What is certain is that Yankee fans believe change is needed if their team is to win again.