The New York Yankees are evaluating ways to strengthen their roster while star outfielder Aaron Judge remains unavailable due to injury. Judge, who has been sidelined since early June with a torn ligament in his left big toe, is not expected to return until at least August, according to the team. As of July 23, 2026, the Yankees hold a 58-40 record, leading the American League East by 3.5 games over the Baltimore Orioles.
General Manager Brian Cashman has indicated that the team is exploring both internal options and potential trade acquisitions. Internal candidates include outfielders Estevan Florial and Jake Bauers, who have seen increased playing time. Florial is batting .245 with 8 home runs in 62 games this season, while Bauers has contributed 10 home runs and a .220 average. The Yankees are also considering promoting top prospect Jasson Domínguez from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he has a .280 average with 15 home runs and 20 stolen bases.
On the trade market, the Yankees are reportedly interested in adding a right-handed bat to complement their left-leaning lineup. Possible targets include Chicago Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger, who is hitting .275 with 18 home runs, and St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, who has a .270 average with 22 home runs. However, any trade would require the Yankees to part with top prospects, which the front office is hesitant to do.
The Yankees' pitching staff remains a strength, with a team ERA of 3.45, second-best in the American League. Gerrit Cole leads the rotation with a 12-4 record and a 2.85 ERA. The bullpen, anchored by closer Clay Holmes (28 saves, 2.10 ERA), has been reliable. The team's primary concern is generating consistent offense without Judge, who was hitting .291 with 28 home runs before his injury.
As the August 1 trade deadline approaches, the Yankees must decide whether to make a significant move or rely on their current roster. Manager Aaron Boone expressed confidence in the team's depth, stating, 'We have a lot of talent in this room, and we believe in the guys we have.' The Yankees' next series against the Toronto Blue Jays will be a key test of their lineup's resilience.
