Yankees: These early trade rumors should worry fans ahead of deadline

2. D-Backs have ‘no plans’ to move Ketel Marte

The Yankees just made a trade for an outfielder with the Arizona Diamondbacks … but it was for one of their bench options. Not David Peralta. Not Ketel Marte. It’s Tim Locastro returning to the Bronx! It wasn’t a bad deal, either. The Yankees needed speed and defense, which Locastro offers. At least Cashman knows where the deficiencies need to be patched up.

But the Yankees still need a starting center fielder — and a flexible one at that. Marte was seemingly the perfect fit. He can play center field and shortstop, and he’s a switch-hitter. That checks all the boxes! A capable starter in center, a reliable backup shortstop, and a lefty bat! Make the move and cancel the deadline!

Unfortunately, however, MLB insider Mark Feinsand is telling us exactly what we don’t want to hear:

"“A number of teams would love to add Marte, but it seems as though the D-backs have no plans to move the 27-year-old for the exact reasons you mention. Trading for players with years of control on reasonable contracts isn’t easy, especially when those players are as good as Marte has been.”"

Great. Well, look, no player is untouchable. If the Yankees blow the D-Backs away with an offer, Arizona will sell. But sadly, Cashman doesn’t do that. He doesn’t overpay. Other teams hardly ever give him another option, but he’s spent the better part of the last five years strategically structuring packages to avoid parting with a young talent he might regret. We’re not going to necessarily criticize it, but sometimes you just gotta let it fly. Give up the prospects. Get the proven talent. Move on. Hope for the best.

Nonetheless, as of right now, the most fitting option for the Yankees is not available based on the latest buzz.