The New York Yankees lost ace Gerrit Cole to Tommy John surgery earlier this year but have yet to make a significant move to replace him.
Their rotation was expected to be led by Cole, Max Fried, and Luis Gil, but Gil has been sidelined all season, and now Ryan Yarbrough—who had been a reliable fill-in—is also out with an injury.
While the Yankees might normally weather these setbacks, the Tampa Bay Rays have emerged as unexpected contenders and are just 2.5 games behind in the AL East, leaving little room for patience.
Even if Gil and Yarbrough return, New York is in clear need of another arm, particularly a proven rental option who can pitch deep into October.
One intriguing name, suggested by Sports Illustrated’s Colin Keane, is Walker Buehler—the very pitcher who helped eliminate the Yankees from the postseason last year.
While Buehler has struggled this season with the Red Sox, posting a 5.95 ERA, his postseason résumé is impressive: a 3.04 ERA across 19 playoff games (18 starts), two World Series rings, and dominant performances against the Yankees in crucial games.
Despite his current form, Buehler’s playoff pedigree makes him a potential game-changer. However, the Red Sox—just half a game out of a wild card spot—may be reluctant to deal him, especially to a division rival.
But should Boston fall out of the race, the Yankees could make a move. With a $25 million mutual option for 2026 and free agency looming, Buehler could be exactly the kind of high-upside gamble New York needs for a deep playoff run.
