Yankees face uphill battle to trade for Nationals ace amid strong Orioles fit

Matt Sullivan

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Yankees face uphill battle to trade for Nationals ace amid strong Orioles fit image

The New York Yankees are not expected to be big spenders this winter, but if they do find a way to keep Cody Bellinger, then a lot of interesting moves come into the picture.

Bellinger re-signing would mean that Jasson Domiguez or Spencer Jones could be traded away this offseason. While they could use an infielder or a bullpen arm, the Yankees' best bet might be to trade one for a starting pitcher.

ESPN insider Jesse Rogers linked the Yankees to Washington Nationals ace MacKenzie Gore. But, Rogers also has the Baltimore Orioles as not just a fit, but a great one. Despite Gore's good fit for the Yankees, they're likely to face an uphill battle to sign him.

Yankees likely to face uphill battle in trade talks for MacKenzie Gore due to Orioles' interest

"Where there is smoke, there is fire, meaning Washington Nationals starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore will be moved." Rogers writes. "An American League East team, such as the New York Yankees or Orioles, fits for Gore."

This is a positive report for the Yankees, as not only are the Yankees linked to a quality starting pitcher, but the player they're linked to is expected to be traded.

But that's only if the report stopped there. Rogers continued, "...especially the latter, which might have an extra hitter or two to spare after signing Alonso. Gore fits in Baltimore on several levels."

That extra report from Rogers makes things clear: in a competition for Gore in trade talks, the Orioles are likely to have a big advantage.

While the Yankees could have some interesting trade chips as well, with Dominguez or Jones, the Orioles have a distinct advantage over the Yankees in these trade talks.

More: Yankees urged to swap Jasson Dominguez to Marlins for 6'5'' ace

Gore is 26 years old and coming off a solid 4.17 ERA 2025 season. He also earned his first All-Star nod and showed the potential of a frontline starter.

The Orioles need a starter more than the Yankees do, but with Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon hurt to begin the year, Gore would be a fantastic trade target for the Yankees.

This insight from Rogers is a tough one for the Yankees, as it's a strong link between Gore being traded and the Yankees, but the Orioles' connection to Gore is stronger.

There's bound to be more teams interested in Gore than just the Orioles and Yankees, but New York got a tough update with how strong a fit Baltimore is. It will be an uphill battle for the Yankees, but it's one they should try fighting, as Gore would be worth it.

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Contributing Writer