Pair of popular Yankees trade targets reportedly being protected by Rays (for now)

The New York Yankees and Houston Astros appeared to have a golden chance to pry on-base machine Yandy Diaz loose at the 2024 MLB trade deadline. But sometimes, perception isn't reality.

Diaz ultimately went nowhere, as the Rays underwent a measured sell-off rather than a full-scale teardown. Closer Pete Fairbanks and slugging infielder Brandon Lowe stayed, too, as Tampa took their chances in a stripped-down American League.

Ultimately, the team finished out of the money in 2024, but likes what they see in front of them in '25, retaining belief in their own talent. With Junior Caminero poised for a breakout and much of their vaunted pitching staff returning to full health, why wouldn't they?

Therefore, as it stands, neither Lowe nor Diaz is available with less than three months to go until Opening Day, according to SNY's Andy Martino. Inquiring teams -- and, surely, there are many -- are being turned away. That could change midsummer, but for now, the Yankees will need to find another 30-homer option for second base, something I'm told does not grow on trees.

Yankees unlikely to trade for unavailable Rays Brandon Lowe and Yandy Diaz

A Diaz addition fell out of favor weeks ago when Paul Goldschmidt signed his one-year deal to fill the Yankees' first base (and leadership void). Despite the exorbitant attached cost and the discomfort in dealing in the division (to a team that makes everyone better), Lowe remained a popular target for second base in Yankees circles. Losing him from even the edges of our brainwaves will sting heading towards 2025 -- though there's always the trade deadline, and there's always a faceless Ray ready to replace him and hit .270 with pop.

Lowe might be more attainable for a non-Yankees club; objectively, if he were to become available, the Rays' asking price would surely be a bit lighter for someone outside the division. No, there will not be kickbacks in exchange for the Yankees generously providing Tampa Bay with a home stadium for 2025.

Entering the final year of his below-market extension before a team option arrives for 2026, Lowe posted a 121 OPS+ with 21 bombs and 2.4 bWAR from the left side of the plate last summer. Maybe that option is eventually declined, and the Yankees can make some three-year free agent overtures next winter? That sounds way likelier than tempting Tampa's front office into taking them seriously on either Diaz or Lowe this season.