Sonny Gray trade talks continue to heat up between Yankees, A’s as deadline looms
Trade talks between the Yankees and A’s about Sonny Gray were heating up on Saturday night, and centered on some of the Bombers’ second-tier prospects, according to sources.
A’s GM Billy Beane has backed off his previous stance of wanting either Clint Frazier or Gleyber Torres in a deal for the 27-year-old righty, who was scratched from his start on Sunday and pushed back to Monday night — following the end of the non-waiver trade deadline.
Class A Charleston outfielder Estevan Florial has become almost as untouchable as some of the Yankees’ other top prospects — including Frazier, Torres and top pitching prospect Chance Adams. The Bombers also don’t want to give up on James Kaprielian, who is currently rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.
It is believed that Double-A Trenton shortstop/centerfielder Jorge Mateo could be the centerpiece of a deal. Zack Littell was also scratched from his start with the Thunder on Saturday, prompting speculation that he could be involved as well. Hard-throwing Double-A Trenton starter Domingo Acevedo could also be of interest to Oakland.
The A’s have been scouting all levels of the Yankees’ farm system lately.
Gray, who can’t become a free agent until 2020, is a risk given his injury history. He has missed time over the last two seasons due to a strained lat, trap and forearm, but he has compiled a 1.37 ERA over his last six starts, dating back to June 25.