Phillies Seen As ‘Sleeper’ To Land Pair Of Rumored Yankees Targets

The New York Yankees have been linked to seemingly every big-name player available. New York needed to drastically improve the club this offseason and it has done just that. The Yankees have filled some of the holes on the roster by landing Juan Soto, Alex Verdugo, and Marcus Stroman. While this is the case, New York still isn’t seen as the top club in the American League East. The Baltimore Orioles won 101 games last season and recently acquired superstar pitcher Corbin Burnes in a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Yankees were linked to Burnes on multiple occasions but didn’t get a deal done. If the Yankees want to compete for the division, they likely could use another big move. Two players who have been linked to the Yankees in various capacities this offseason are Cody Bellinger and Jordan Montgomery. While moves still should be considered unlikely, landing either would be great for New York. If the Yankees change their minds and decide to make another big move, they will have competition, though, as the Philadelphia Phillies are seen as sleepers to land either Montgomery or Bellinger, according to USA Today Sports’ Bob Nightengale.

“Several executives think the Philadelphia Phillies could be a sleeper for one of the remaining marquee free agents in starter Jordan Montgomery or center fielder Cody Bellinger,” Nightengale said. “Their lone big move has been re-signing Aaron Nola, and Bellinger certainly would provide Gold Glove-caliber defense and another bat to balance the lineup. “Montgomery would strengthen the top of the rotation. Yet, unless their price tags drop, the Phillies plan to remain patient.” If New York wants to truly compete next season, another move could make sense. Either Montgomery or Bellinger certainly could help, but moves should be considered unlikely at this point.