What happened: The New York Yankees have made clear they want Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers ahead of the trade deadline, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Jeffers, a seven-year veteran who has spent his entire career with the Twins, would address what many see as New York's thinnest position. The report frames catcher as the one spot an otherwise elite roster could meaningfully upgrade.
Why it matters: New York sits atop the American League East at 46-29 but has eyed catching depth on the trade market for weeks. Jeffers offers a proven bat behind the plate, and the interest persists even with Austin Wells expected back from injury, suggesting the Yankees want both insurance and an upgrade at the position heading into the stretch run.
By the numbers: Jeffers is batting .295 this season with seven home runs, 26 RBIs and 26 runs in 37 games. For his career, the 29-year-old owns a .243 average with 75 home runs and 249 RBIs across 552 games, all with Minnesota since being drafted in the second round in 2018.
What to watch: Watch whether Minnesota engages as the deadline approaches and how Wells's return from injury reshapes New York's plans behind the plate.