Santo Domingo.— The New York Yankees have initiated conversations with the Pittsburgh Pirates for the stellar Dominican outfielder Oneil Cruz, according to reports from renowned analyst Jon Heyman of MLB Network. Although the price for the player would be high, the Bronx club seeks to reinforce its offense while competing in the tight American League East Division.
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Oneil Cruz, 26 years old, has been one of the most electrifying figures of the season thanks to his unusual combination of power and speed. The Nizao native is tied for the Major League lead with 33 stolen bases, while adding 16 home runs, approaching the 21 he hit in 2024, his personal best.
Acquiring the versatile player would involve reconfigurations in the Yankees’ lineup, as Cody Bellinger occupies center field and Anthony Volpe remains the starting shortstop, Cruz’s original position. However, the Dominican’s offensive potential — capable of influencing the game both with the bat and on the bases — makes him a coveted piece.
The price to acquire Cruz will not be low. A source revealed to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand that, although the Pirates are willing to listen to offers, they do not prioritize his departure. “Pittsburgh would have to be absolutely impressed by an offer,” he warned.
The Yankees’ interest comes amid their fight to catch the Toronto Blue Jays, who lead the division with a 4.5-game lead.
Cruz’s show at the Derby
Cruz was one of the sensations of the past All-Star Game by standing out in the Home Run Derby, where he tied in the first round with 21 home runs and advanced for having the longest hit of the group: 513 feet, equaling Aaron Judge’s record outside of Coors Field since the introduction of Statcast.
