The New York Yankees started the 2025 MLB season promisingly but have recently hit a rough patch, prompting the team to explore roster changes. Central to these plans is their interest in acquiring Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz, a move that could reshape their lineup but demands significant trade concessions.
Potential Players the Yankees Might Trade for Oneil Cruz
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees may need to part with valuable prospects to secure Cruz. Among the most notable options is Spencer Jones, a 24-year-old standout within the organization. Jones boasts an impressive 2025 Minor League season, hitting .314 with 29 home runs, 69 runs scored, and 57 RBIs over 255 at-bats. Despite his promising development, Jones could be included in trade discussions.
Oswald Peraza remains another intriguing candidate. Though he has struggled to make a strong impact this season, his youth and minor league track record suggest untapped potential. Over 2,105 at-bats in the minors, Peraza carries a respectable average of .268, marking him as a future asset the Pirates might appreciate.
Also on the trade radar is Anthony Volpe, whose 2025 performance has been disappointing. Despite ample opportunity, Volpe has posted just a .214 batting average over 360 at-bats. With fluctuating form, the Yankees might be willing to move on if they bring Cruz into their lineup.
The Impact and Future Outlook of a Cruz Trade
Bringing Oneil Cruz to New York could provide a much-needed spark amid the team’s recent struggles, but it will come at a cost. The Yankees must weigh the value of their top prospects like Jones, Peraza, and Volpe—players who each represent potential future contributors. Should a trade be finalized, it signals the organization’s commitment to immediate improvement despite risking long-term development. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether this gamble helps the Yankees regain their early-season momentum or if the sacrifices will prove too steep.
“New York expressed interest in acquiring Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz.” —Jon Heyman, MLB Insider
“While Cruz hasn’t been at his best this season, the Pirates would receive a young prospect they can mold into an asset.” —Jon Heyman, MLB Insider
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What surgery did Oneil Cruz have?
A. Greg Altman and Dr. Darren Frank treated Cruz’s left broken fibula and took care of an injury to the syndesmosis. This joint by the ankle is held together by ligaments. Manager Derek Shelton felt somewhat relieved because the injury was confined to the ankle area, sparing the rest of the left leg.
Q. What was Oneil Cruz’s injury?
A. Cruz is going to the injured list because of a broken right foot. He has already played just a few games this season. Oneil Cruz, ranked as MLB.com’s 91st overall prospect, got hurt while playing for Class A Advanced Bradenton on Saturday night.