The New York Yankees are reportedly exploring a major trade involving Luis Gil as they aim to strengthen their pitching staff amid early-season injuries. With key starters Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon sidelined but expected to return soon, the Yankees may look to acquire Minnesota Twins’ Joe Ryan to bolster their rotation immediately.
Recent rumors suggest the Yankees could move former top prospect Jasson Dominguez to Triple-A, possibly signaling a willingness to trade him alongside Luis Gil to improve the major league roster. The Minnesota Twins face their own challenges after news that Pablo Lopez will miss the entire 2026 season due to Tommy John surgery, fueling speculation that Joe Ryan is available for trade.
Analyzing the Potential Joe Ryan Trade for the Yankees
Christopher Kline of FanSided.com highlighted the Yankees among five teams that could pursue Joe Ryan. Kline recommends a deal where the Yankees would send Jasson Dominguez, Luis Gil, and Chase Hampton to the Twins in exchange for Ryan. This trade offers the Yankees a chance to add another frontline starter to complement Cole and Max Fried.
The Yankees are still waiting on Gerrit Cole (and Carlos Rodón and Clarke Schmidt). Beyond Max Fried, there isn’t a ton of proven, dependable firepower in the New York rotation right now. Ryan gives them another ace, who alongside Fried and Cole could supplement the AL’s most potent lineup with a dangerous three-headed monster come October.
— Christopher Kline, FanSided.com
For Minnesota, the deal could be a way to replace Ryan by acquiring promising young pitcher Luis Gil and infusing the roster with talent in outfield prospect Jasson Dominguez, making the trade mutually beneficial in terms of rebuilding and immediate impact.
What Joe Ryan Could Add to the Yankees Rotation
Joe Ryan’s 2025 season was his breakout year, culminating in his first All-Star selection. His demonstrated durability and performance, including 171 innings pitched and 194 strikeouts, make him a valuable asset as a potential third starter in New York’s rotation.
Although the trade would require the Yankees to part with several promising players, including their 2024 AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil, the move could pay off if the organization doubts Gil’s ability to hold a consistent role in the rotation. Trading him while his value remains high might be the best course of action.
Ryan’s key 2025 stats were 4.5 pWAR across 30 starts, reflecting his capacity to contribute significantly to a pitching staff aiming for postseason success.
With the Yankees’ rotation still uncertain due to injuries to Cole, Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt, adding Joe Ryan could stabilize the staff and position the team as a top contender heading into October.
