Yankees Trade Bust Gets New Chance With First-Place Rival

BusinessSportsMoneyYankees Trade Bust Gets New Chance With First-Place RivalByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorJun 10, 2026, 07:00am EDTBOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 14: Austin Slater #29 of the New York Yankees makes a catch on Romy Gonzalez #23 of the Boston Red Sox during the second inning at Fenway Park on September 14, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe New York Yankees have cycled through several complementary pieces around their superstar core in recent seasons, frequently turning to the trade market at midseason in hopes of finding inexpensive roster upgrades.That seems likely to be the case again this year, as the team searches for some bullpen improvement and perhaps some position player reinforcement with Aaron Judge sidelined.But before then, one of the team’s recent trade deadline moves, which proved to be a disappointment, has gotten a new update. ForbesGiants’ Patrick Bailey Replacement Leaves Team After 2-Day StintBy Peter ChawagaNew York Yankees’ Trade Deadline Bust Gets Fresh Start With Division RivalLast summer, the Yankees acquired veteran outfielder Austin Slater as part of a deadline push aimed at improving their roster depth against left-handed pitching. “New York parted with Minor League right-hander Gage Ziehl (the club’s No. 18 prospect, according to MLB Pipeline) in exchange for the 32-year-old Slater, who has a strong track record against left-handed pitching and can play all three outfield positions,” MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch reported at the time. “Slater is the third position player acquired by the Yankees this week, following previous deals to import third baseman Ryan McMahon and infielder/outfielder Amed Rosario.”MORE FOR YOUWhile the acquisition appeared promising on paper, Slater never became a meaningful contributor in New York and quickly moved on a...