Earlier this week, I suggested four potential trades the New York Yankees could consider to strengthen their position in the American League East. One of the most intriguing proposals would see the Yankees acquire St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, starting pitcher Miles Mikolas, and closer Ryan Helsley. Here’s how the trade would unfold:
Yankees receive: 3B Nolan Arenado, RHP Ryan Helsley, RHP Miles Mikolas, $25 million
Cardinals receive: RHP Bryce Cunningham, SS/2B Roderick Arias, RHP Cam Schlitter
This trade is quite complex, so let’s break it down. Arenado and Mikolas come to the Yankees with nearly $100 million left on their contracts. To help cover these hefty deals, the Cardinals would send $25 million to New York. Arenado would step in as the Yankees’ everyday third baseman, but Mikolas would likely be released due to his consistent struggles and poor performance as one of the least effective pitchers in the league.
Although the Yankees added Devin Williams in the offseason, his performance has been shaky, and with the need for more high-leverage arms, the Yankees would also receive Helsley, the Cardinals’ closer, in this trade. Helsley is on an expiring contract, so New York would get a valuable arm for this season.
In return, the Cardinals would acquire three promising prospects. Bryce Cunningham, the Yankees’ second-round pick last season, has the potential to develop into an ace. Roderick Arias, while still far from a big-league debut, is a versatile infielder with significant upside. Cam Schlitter has been impressive in the minors and could rise quickly through the Cardinals’ system.
This deal would give the Yankees a star third baseman and a shutdown closer without compromising their long-term future. Meanwhile, the Cardinals would gain three talented prospects and shed a large amount of payroll in the process.
