**MLB Insider Suggests Yankees Could Trade for Gio Urshela to Bolster Infield**
In recent weeks, the New York Yankees’ once-dominant form has faltered against a string of formidable opponents, including the Red Sox, Orioles, Braves, Mets, and Blue Jays, culminating in a concerning stretch of losses in 10 of their last 13 games. Once lauded as among MLB’s finest, the team’s sudden downturn has underscored urgent needs as the July 30 trade deadline looms large.
While the Yankees are no longer atop the AL East, their competitive standing remains robust. Yet, with their recent slide threatening to widen the gap between them and their divisional rivals, General Manager Brian Cashman finds himself under increasing pressure to bolster the roster promptly.
One plausible solution, as suggested by seasoned MLB insider Jon Heyman, involves the potential return of Gio Urshela, a familiar face from his tenure with the Yankees. Urshela, currently plying his trade with the Detroit Tigers, finds himself on a team facing dim prospects for postseason contention.
Urshela’s reintroduction might not trigger widespread excitement, but it addresses an immediate need exacerbated by the recent injury sidelining Anthony Rizzo for an estimated two months. A versatile infielder, Urshela has logged significant innings at third base for the Tigers this season.
Nonetheless, Urshela’s current statistical output pales in comparison to his productive years in New York between 2019 and 2021, marked notably by an OPS+ of 119.
In the 2024 season, Urshela has recorded a modest .253/.292/.322/.614 slash line, contributing 2 home runs, 20 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 74. Despite these diminished numbers, Heyman argues that Urshela could serve as a pragmatic short-term solution, particularly given his contractual status—operating under a one-year deal valued at a reasonable $1.5 million.
For the Yankees, aiming to plug a critical gap without parting with prized prospects, Urshela emerges as a financially prudent acquisition.
