Key Highlights

• The New York Yankees are considering reuniting with Toronto Blue Jays reliever Chad Green.
• Chad Green has had a successful season with a 1.88 ERA over 28.2 innings.
• The Yankees face significant bullpen injuries and need additional relief pitching.
• Green’s contract extends through 2025, making him a valuable asset for the Yankees.

(NicePlay Sports) – It seems like just about every buyer will be looking for bullpen help at the upcoming trade deadline, and the Yankees are no exception. Could they bring back an old friend to help bolster the ‘pen? According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Yankees are “interested in a reunion” with right-hander Chad Green. The 33-year-old Green signed a two-year, $8.5 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays last January, just months after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He returned for 12 games at the end of last season, and has been tremendous for the Jays in 2024, pitching to a 1.88 ERA with 24 strikeouts over 28.2 innings. Green was originally acquired by the Yankees in a December 2015 trade with Detroit, and he developed into one of Aaron Boone’s go-to relievers. Over the course of seven seasons in Pinstripes, Green posted a 3.14 ERA, including a stellar 1.83 ERA in 2017.

Analyzing Chad Green’s Appeal to the Yankees

The potential reunion between the New York Yankees and Chad Green is fueled by multiple factors, including Green’s impressive performance and the Yankees’ pressing need for reliable bullpen arms. In his current season with the Toronto Blue Jays, Green has maintained a remarkable 1.88 ERA, striking out 24 batters in just 28.2 innings. These stats highlight his effectiveness and capacity to handle high-leverage situations, something the Yankees sorely need.
However, Green’s advanced metrics present a mixed bag. His K/9 ratio has dipped to 7.53, a significant career low, raising questions about the sustainability of his performance. According to FanGraphs, his expected ERA sits at 4.35, while his FIP is at 4.79, and expected FIP is at 4.60. These figures suggest a potential regression to the mean, which could be a red flag for the Yankees’ front office.
Green’s familiarity with the Yankees’ organization and his previous success in New York make him an appealing target. Having pitched in Pinstripes for seven seasons with a collective ERA of 3.14, Green has developed a strong rapport with both fans and teammates. His experience and reliability in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset as the Yankees aim to solidify their bullpen for the stretch run.

Yankees’ Bullpen Woes

The Yankees’ bullpen has been a source of concern this season, plagued by injuries to key players like Jonathan Loaisiga, Scott Effross, Nick Burdi, Ian Hamilton, and Lou Trivino. This month alone, the team has struggled to find consistency and stability, prompting the need for reinforcements.
Acquiring Chad Green could provide the Yankees with a much-needed boost. His ability to pitch multiple innings and his experience in various relief roles would offer manager Aaron Boone greater flexibility in managing the bullpen. Moreover, Green’s contract, which extends through 2025 at $10.5 million, ensures that he would not only help down the stretch this season but also be a significant piece for the next campaign.
While the Yankees have other bullpen options, Green’s previous track record with the team and current performance make him a particularly attractive candidate. His return would also serve as a morale boost for a bullpen that has been decimated by injuries.

Blue Jays’ Trade Possibilities

The Toronto Blue Jays, currently languishing at the bottom of the AL East, are likely sellers as the trade deadline approaches. With a record of 45-54, their postseason hopes are slim, making it plausible for them to entertain trade offers for valuable assets like Chad Green.
Besides Green, the Blue Jays have other players who could attract interest from contending teams. Names like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, Yusei Kikuchi, and Yimi Garcia come to mind. Each of these players offers different strengths and could be instrumental in bolstering the rosters of playoff-bound teams.
Jon Morosi’s reports suggest that Green is among those likely to be moved. His performance this season and his contract situation make him a desirable trade target. The Blue Jays could leverage his value to acquire prospects or other pieces that fit into their long-term plans.

Trade Deadline Dynamics

The MLB trade deadline is always an exciting period, filled with speculation and last-minute deals. For the Yankees, the focus is clear: reinforce the bullpen and potentially add an infield bat. The latter is particularly crucial as the team looks for a leadoff hitter to set the stage for heavy hitters like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge.
The Yankees’ need for bullpen help is not unique; nearly every contending team is in the market for reliable relievers. However, the specific circumstances surrounding their bullpen, including multiple injuries and the inconsistency of current options, make their pursuit of Chad Green particularly urgent.
As the deadline approaches, it will be interesting to monitor the Yankees’ moves. With their sights set on a deep playoff run, aggressive buying seems to be the order of the day. Chad Green’s potential return to New York could be a key piece in their quest for October glory. The coming days will reveal how the Yankees navigate this critical juncture and whether Green will once again don the Pinstripes.