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Yankees Pursue Trade for Edward Cabrera Amid Rotation Uncertainty

1/4/2026, 10:05:46 PM

Trade Discussions with the Miami Marlins

The New York Yankees are actively engaged in trade talks with the Miami Marlins regarding starting pitcher Edward Cabrera. This move comes as the Yankees face significant uncertainty in their starting rotation, with key pitchers Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt all recovering from elbow surgeries and unavailable at the season's start. Cabrera, 27, is under team control through the 2028 season and is projected to earn approximately $3.7 million in arbitration for 2026. His 2025 season was notable, featuring a 3.53 earned run average (ERA) over 137.2 innings, with 150 strikeouts, marking a career high in both innings and strikeouts.

Yankees' Rotation Needs

The Yankees' current rotation is expected to include Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil, Will Warren, and Ryan Yarbrough, but the absence of Cole, Rodón, and Schmidt has prompted the team to seek additional pitching depth. Cabrera's potential addition would provide a significant boost to the rotation, especially given his performance in 2025, where he demonstrated improved command and durability compared to previous seasons.

Competition for Cabrera

While the Yankees are leading the charge for Cabrera, they are not alone in their pursuit. The New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and San Francisco Giants have also expressed interest in the right-hander. Reports indicate that the Marlins, who have a surplus of starting pitchers, are open to trade discussions but are likely to demand a substantial return, given Cabrera's potential and remaining years of control.

Injury Concerns

Despite his promising performance, Cabrera's history of injuries raises concerns. He has faced multiple stints on the injured list over the past two seasons, including issues with his right shoulder and elbow. The Yankees must weigh these injury risks against the potential benefits of acquiring a pitcher with Cabrera's talent and upside.

Official Statements & Responses

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has publicly stated his desire to enhance the starting rotation before the season begins. The team's ongoing discussions with the Marlins signal a proactive approach to addressing their pitching needs.

Criticism & Opposition

Some analysts caution that trading for Cabrera could be a gamble, given his injury history. Critics argue that the Yankees should be cautious in their pursuit, ensuring that they do not sacrifice too much of their future for a player who may not provide the expected return on investment due to health concerns.

What's Next

As the offseason progresses, the Yankees are expected to continue their negotiations with the Marlins and explore other options, including Milwaukee Brewers starter Freddy Peralta. The urgency to finalize a deal for Cabrera or another starting pitcher is heightened by the approaching season and the need to solidify the rotation.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “With uncertainty surrounding their starting rotation to begin the season, the New York Yankees are talking to the Miami Marlins about a potential trade for starting pitcher Edward Cabrera, league sources told The Athletic.” — Chris Kirschner, The Athletic
  • “If healthy, Cabrera would provide the Yankees’ rotation a major boost alongside Max Fried, Luis Gil, Cam Schlittler and Will Warren.” — Jon Heyman, New York Post
  • “The Marlins want to at least contend for the playoffs in 2026, and club officials are bullish on their chances of doing so.” — Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic

The Yankees' pursuit of Edward Cabrera reflects their commitment to strengthening their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season, navigating both the challenges of injuries and the competitive trade market.