Five Ways the Yankees Can Shore Up the 2017 Pitching Staff

Trade for an Ace

When asked about using the Yankees newfound elite prospect depth for an ace (without naming any names of course), Cashman did not sound thrilled with the idea, although he did not dismiss it completely.

"I think that type of deal is a deal where you’re that final piece away. I think we have an exciting young nucleus that’s coming … But there are some flaws, honestly, in this roster still. That doesn’t mean you can’t compete for a postseason berth. That doesn’t mean you can’t play in October. But the type of concept that you’re speaking of — I’m sure that everybody knows who you’re talking about by asking that question — but that to me (is a trade you make if) you’re an organization that’s one piece away, you back up the truck (and trade) four and five players. You have to be one piece away, and I would not recommend that type of decision as we approach the 2017 season. I think that would be dangerous."

Pairing an ace like Chris Sale, Chris Archer, or Sonny Gray would give New York an insane playoff rotation and possible make them the favorites in the AL East next year, but it would also open them up to a ton of risk. Prospects are also risky, but at least when you have four or five exciting talents, you are spreading some of that uncertainty around.

There’s a much smaller chance you end up with nothing, which is what would happen if you trade Aaron Judge, Luis Severino, Clint Frazier, and Gleyber Torres to the White Sox for Sale and then he needs TJ surgery in July.

Going all in on a superstar is a bold move. It has its benefits, but I prefer Cashman’s strategy of slowly building up a sustainable core from within.