Yankees trade Brian McCann to Astros: Media reactions

Having two catchers capable of starting everyday is certainly a good problem to have. Now, it’s a problem that the Yankees used to have. With the emergence of Gary Sanchez, Brian McCann instantly became expendable. After saying that he was comfortable having McCann be the primary DH and catch once or twice a week, Brian Cashman saw an opportunity to add some prospects, and he took that chance. McCann saw an opportunity to continue catching on a good, young team and took that opportunity.

Apparently Cashman was willing to buy into Sanchez before even seeing him last year! Then Sanchez playing the way he did probably reaffirmed Cashman’s faith so he felt even more confident in making that trade.

Romine having a solid 2016 campaign also makes the trade easier. In a backup role, Romine did exactly what was asked of him and the Yankees will likely reward his good play.

Another big factor for the Yankees is being able to shed a decent amount of salary.

Sounds like the makings of a spending spree!

Now they have the money and a roster spot to put a real DH. McCann was great, but didn’t profile too well as a DH. Now the Yankees have a chance to get more of an impact bat.

Sounds like this trade was multi-faceted. Allows them to go all-in on Sanchez, gives them money and room to sign a DH, and allows them to protect someone ahead of tonight’s deadline to protect any player who is Rule 5 eligible. Plus the prospects coming back seem pretty solid too.

Easy to see why the Yankees were okay with this trade. Pitching help, even if they end up as bullpen pieces, is always a good thing.

Pretty cool to get a video of Abreu to see what all the buzz is about. Helps understand why even if he’s a project he’s a player to get excited about.

Cashman keeps adding to the list! Abreu apparently slides in at #10 and pushes Dillon Tate to #11. Maybe we shouldn’t fire him just yet?

McCann was extremely solid for the Yankees while he was here, and did nothing to warrant his departure. The Yankees had no choice but to go forward with Sanchez though, and this allows McCann to keep catching, which is where his heart is. Even Chase Headley, who might be on his way out next, recognizes it.

It’s not the splashiest move for the Yankees, but overall it seems like a good one for both teams involved. The Astros get the catcher they need, while the Yankees get to shed some payroll and clear up some space to hopefully upgrade the lineup. Hopefully Abreu and Guzman can eventually find their way to the Bronx and help out the Yankees.

Most important:

Nailed it.