Yankees Trade Rumors: Texas Rangers, New York Discuss Deal For Outfielder

The New York Yankees and Texas Rangers did more than just face off in a four-game series at Globe Life Field this week. The two teams are reportedly discussing a trade that could help alleviate the Bronx Bombers’ issues in the outfield.

The Yankees and Rangers have talked about a deal for Texas minor-league outfielder Delino DeShields Jr., The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reports. As DeShields thrives for the Rangers’ Triple-A affiliate, there has been speculation that the 28-year-old will return to the majors elsewhere.

DeShields has a 1.206 OPS with two home runs and a stolen base in 34 at-bats. He averaged over 100 games per season for the Rangers from 2015-2019 before playing 37 games for the Cleveland Indians in 2020. DeShields is hitting .246/.326/.340 for his MLB career.

New York is desperate for any help in its outfield, which has been decimated by injuries. Recent call-up Ryan LaMarre was placed on the injured list during the Yankees’ series with Texas, and Clint Frazier was sidelined with a neck injury this week.

Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Hicks are already on the IL.

Another Rangers outfielder has been viewed as a possible fit for the Yankees. Joey Gallo has multiple 40 home run seasons on his resume, and his left-handed power could be highlighted by Yankee Stadium’s short porch in right field. Gallo is hitting .213 with seven home runs and a league-high 64 strikeouts in 44 games.

The Rangers are in last place and not expected to contend for a playoff spot, making them likely sellers before the July 30 trade deadline. The Yankees have visions of winning their first World Series in 12 years. New York trails the Boston Red Sox by 1.5 games in the AL East.

The Yankees beat the Rangers three out of four times in Texas. Corey Kluber tossed a no-hitter, making it the second time this season that Texas didn't record a single hit in a game.

Between the Yankees’ injuries and underwhelming production from the lineup, New York will probably make a trade at some point.