Yankees 'Listening and Engaging' on Multiple Trade Possibilities, Brian Cashman Says

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told reporters on Wednesday that he's been listening to and engaging in potential trade talks this winter.

He said that the team does not have a right fielder. There is no left fielder for us. I want to improve the pitchers. There will be a lot of exciting opportunities in the middle infield next year because we have some kids pushing in on the infield.

The team's future plans will be affected by the decision of free-agent Judge, who will make his decision this winter.

Cashman said that if they could wave a magic wand, they would retain Judge and have him sign and be happy. He isn't a free agent. He deserves to be a free agent. He's going to dictate the steps.

Joel Sherman @Joelsherman1

Cashman said he has been in touch with Judge’s rep at the GM Meetings. Would not say if the NYY have made an offer. Did say that he has been made no promise by Judge camp that the NYY will be given last chance to match/beat a best offer.

He's going to have a lot of dance partners after a season in which he hit.301 with 62 homers, 131 runs, 16 stolen bases and a 1.111OPS. The departure of Judge would be a huge blow to New York.

The Yankees have a projected payroll of $181 million for next season, and a deal for Judge isn't going to be cheap, along with other needs in left field and possibly first base.

Jon Morosi @jonmorosi

Cashman on Rizzo: “We like him on the field, and we like him in the clubhouse . . . He’s a free agent now. We’ll be one of many, I’m sure, that will engage him. He’ll hear what he hears on the marketplace and ultimately make a decision for him and his family.” @MLBNetwork

Bryan Hoch @BryanHoch

Asked about shortstop, Cashman said that he views “a lot of exciting opportunities that could play out next spring in the middle infield category.” Oswald Peraza, Oswaldo Cabrera & Anthony Volpe all could be in play.

Depending on New York's approach to free agency, the wage sheet could start to tick up very quickly if the Yankees try to chase one of the elite starting pitchers.

A trade might be able to handle some of the needs without the need for free agency. The team's entire plan for the upcoming season will probably be dependent on Judge's decision.

I can't sign a right fielder who isn't Judge. After he was asked what he was going to do, Cashman told reporters. I won't do that in the near term.