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With the MLB trade deadline just around the corner, the New York Yankees are shaping up to be one of the most aggressive teams in the hunt for reinforcements. GM Brian Cashman knows the squad needs a right-handed catcher and more firepower in the bullpen—a need that’s become almost a tradition in the Bronx. But here’s the million-dollar question: What are the Yankees actually willing to give up to get the talent that could take them back to the top?
When it comes to sellers, the Yankees have one of the most coveted farm systems in baseball. Still, two of their brightest gems seem untouchable: infielder George Lombard Jr. (the club’s No. 1 prospect and No. 20 overall on MLB Pipeline) and right-hander Carlos Lagrange (Yankees’ No. 4 and No. 80 in the Top 100). All signs point to these two being off-limits, which means other high-profile prospects are now in the spotlight for potential trades.
Names that could be in play? Shortstop Dax Kilby (No. 58 in the Top 100) and righty Elmer Rodríguez (No. 73), plus former super-prospects Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones. Both outfielders have tasted the Big Leagues, but neither has managed to become a Bronx superstar—at least, not yet.
Jasson Domínguez & Spencer Jones: Time for a Change or Last Call?
Jasson Domínguez, the “Martian” who was once the Yankees’ great hope, has had his chances in the majors, but his numbers haven’t quite lived up to the hype. In 123 MLB games, Domínguez has hit .257/.331/.388 with 10 homers, 47 RBIs, and 23 steals. This year, after starting in Triple-A, injuries to Aaron Judge, Trent Grisham, and Giancarlo Stanton opened the door for him again, but in 39 games he’s only hitting .229/.265/.396 with five home runs and 11 RBIs. At 23, time is running out to convince the front office, and his name is buzzing as a trade chip.
Spencer Jones, on the other hand, made his MLB debut on May 8. With his towering 6-foot-6 frame and raw power, he looked like the next Bronx Bomber, but in 30 games he’s only hitting .233/.317/.370 with two homers and seven RBIs. Back in Triple-A, Jones has shown his potential with 14 home runs, 51 RBIs, and a .951 OPS in 51 games. At 25, he could be just the change-of-scenery candidate other teams are looking for.
Dax Kilby & Elmer Rodríguez: The Crown Jewels Who Could Fetch a Haul
Dax Kilby, picked 39th overall in the 2025 Draft, is a lefty bat with 20-20 potential (homers and steals), though injuries have slowed his rise. He hasn’t played this year due to a hamstring issue, but rehab is underway. The Yankees would love to keep him, so it’d take a blockbuster return to pry this 19-year-old away. He could end up at second base or center field, thanks to shoulder issues and a funky throwing motion.
Elmer Rodríguez, meanwhile, might be the most attractive arm the Yankees can offer. The 22-year-old righty already debuted in the MLB with four starts (0-2, 4.76 ERA), but in Triple-A he’s rocking a 2.85 ERA over 13 outings. He could be part of the future rotation, but the team’s current pitching depth puts him squarely in the trade window.
Other Names to Watch: Henry Lalane & Allen Facundo
The Yankees’ Top 100 prospects aren’t the whole story. There are other intriguing pieces like Henry Lalane and Allen Facundo. Lalane, a 22-year-old lefty from the Dominican Republic, has impressed with a 2.74 ERA in 13 starts at Class A and just got bumped up to High-A, where he’s posted back-to-back double-digit strikeout games. His upside as a dominant starter makes him a hot name for rival scouts.
Allen Facundo, also a lefty and part of the 2021 international class, came back from Tommy John surgery throwing harder than ever—touching 100 mph. This year, he’s got a 3.71 ERA in 15 starts between Tampa and Hudson Valley, though some see him as a long-term reliever.
What Are the Yankees Looking For—and What Can They Offer?
The Yankees’ priorities are crystal clear: they need a right-handed catcher who can hit and a stronger bullpen for the stretch run. With a deep rotation and plenty of prospects ready to make the leap, Cashman has room to deal without mortgaging the club’s immediate future.
The market knows Lombard Jr. and Lagrange are off-limits, but the rest of the Yankees’ elite prospects are on the table. Rebuilding teams or those looking to get younger could see Domínguez, Jones, Kilby, or Rodríguez as the missing piece to speed up their process.
Who Could Be Bronx-Bound?
No confirmed names yet, but the Yankees’ need for a right-handed catcher and quality relievers puts several players from non-contenders in their sights. Cashman’s track record shows he won’t hesitate to pay the right price if it means making the team October-ready.
Yankees Trade Deadline FAQs
Why are the Yankees after a right-handed catcher?
Offense from the catcher spot has been a weak link this year, and they’re looking for a righty bat who can bring power and consistency—especially against lefties.
How likely are Jasson Domínguez or Spencer Jones to be traded?
Both have slipped down the depth chart and could be prime candidates for a change of scenery, especially if the Yankees want an immediate-impact addition.
Which Yankees prospects are untouchable?
George Lombard Jr. and Carlos Lagrange are considered cornerstones for the future and, according to recent reports, are not available in trade talks.
What kind of players are the Yankees targeting?
Mainly a right-handed catcher and bullpen arms, but don’t rule out depth at other spots if the right opportunity pops up.
Which teams could be trade partners for the Yankees?
Any rebuilding team or one out of the playoff race could be interested in the Yankees’ prospects—especially those needing outfield or rotation help.
