Yankees, Mets, Marlins reportedly discussing three-team J.T. Realmuto trade

The Winter Meetings got off to a quiet, almost grouchy start for the Yankees. Brian Cashman met with the media on Monday evening sounding almost combative in his tone, dismissing rumors out of hand, preaching the Yankees’ newfound austerity. It appeared that the Bombers weren’t involved in much of anything worth noting.

That all changed in a flash however, as Ken Rosenthal dropped a bombshell: The Yankees, Mets, and Marlins have been working a three-team trade involving All-Star catcher J.T. Realmuto. Andy Martino noted that the Yankees and Mets have discussed Noah Syndergaard in recent days, and Thor could be part of the package. Jon Heyman first reported the possibility of the Yankees as a broker in a Realmuto trade.

Realmuto, 27, had a breakout season in 2018. He established himself as one of the game’s top catchers, hitting .277/.340/.484 with 21 home runs. His 126 wRC+ led all of catchers with a minimum of 100 plate appearances. He doesn’t grade out as a particularly strong framer, but does a fine job blocking and boasts an excellent arm.

Syndergaard, 26, represents one of the most electrifying pitchers in baseball. Thor pitched to a 3.03 ERA (2.80 FIP) over 154.1 innings in 2018. His combination of a high-octane fastball and wipeout slider results in terrific strikeout rates, as well as keeps the ball in the park. He definitely would fit the bill as one of the “preferably elite” arms that Brian Cashman has been hunting.

There are caveats, to this, of course. Joel Sherman notes that multiple scenarios are being discussed with the Mets, and the one featuring the Yankees isn’t the best offer. There also exists the fact that the Wilpons own the Mets, and a trade of this caliber may not please them. There’s also no word on any pieces that would leave the Yankees. A lot of smoke has to clear before things can advance to more serious stages.

Pinstripe Alley will have more as this develops. Stay tuned for what could be an interesting night.