Yankees Making 'No Secret' of Wanting Ryan Jeffers

Posted Jun 23, 2026

The New York Yankees may have identified their top target ahead of the August 3 trade deadline.

In a recent article for USA Today, MLB insider Bob Nightengale mentioned that the Yankees are "making it no secret" that they want to trade for Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers. The Bronx Bombers have been linked to catching help for a while, with Jeffers being among potential candidates; Joel Sherman of the New York Postlinked Jeffers to the Yankees earlier this month.

Jeffers has been on the injured list since May 19 with a fractured hamate bone in his left hand, but was solidifying himself as one of MLB's best hitting catchers early in the season. The 29-year-old provided consistent offensive production over the past three seasons, hitting 44 home runs with a .772 OPS from 2023 to 2025. However, 2026 has looked like a breakthrough beyond that.

In 37 games before his injury, Jeffers slashed .295/.408/.541 with seven home runs, 26 RBI, a .411 wOBA and 163 wRC+. His batted ball and swing decision metrics via Statcast also ranked among the best in baseball; even with the tricky nature of hamate injuries, it's clear that Jeffers' approach is working. Additionally, his defense behind the plate has improved this year compared to past seasons, and Yankees' director of catching Tanner Swanson previously worked with Jeffers back when he was with the Twins organization.

The Yankees have gotten very little offensive production from their catchers this season, with Austin Wells, J.C. Escarra and Ali Sanchez combining for a .183/.270/.268 slash line, four home runs (all by Wells) and a 52 wRC+. Sanchez has looked decent in a small sample size, while Wells is returning from the injured list after being sidelined by cervical headaches; even with these positive developments, it's clear the position is a weakness in an otherwise potent Yankees lineup.

Jeffers checks so many boxes (right-handed hitter, productive at the plate, connected to Yankees' catching development) that it's not a surprise that the Bronx Bombers are eager to get him. Nightengale's report may hurt their leverage with the Twins, who will likely ask for more after knowing how much the Yankees want Jeffers, but he'd be an ideal addition to the team's quest for a World Series title.

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BREAKING: YANKEES LEGEND PAUL O’NEILL TEARFULLY EXPRESSES GRATITUDE – “FANS HELPED ME FIGHT EVERY DAY”
The American baseball community is turning its attention to one of the most beloved icons in New York Yankees history, as Paul O’Neill sent a moving message expressing his gratitude to the fans who have stood by him in his battle against cancer. This message not only brought tears to the eyes of Yankees fans but also resonated strongly throughout MLB as a profound reminder of the power of love, support, and never-give-up spirit. Paul O’Neill is more than just a former player. He was a part of New York Yankees history during their golden age in the late 1990s, where he played a major role in helping the team win numerous World Series titles and become one of MLB's greatest dynasties. But off the spotlight, O’Neill is facing a greater challenge than any game on the field: a battle against cancer. While he hasn't publicly disclosed many details about his health, he frequently shares that the support from his fans is what keeps him going. In a recent statement, Paul O’Neill expressed his deep gratitude to the Yankees fan community: “I never thought that my love for baseball could be such a source of strength in my life. The fans have been with me through every difficult period, and that makes me never feel like I’m fighting alone.” The message quickly spread on social media, receiving thousands of messages of encouragement from fans, former teammates, and young MLB players alike. Throughout his career with the Yankees, Paul O’Neill was renowned for his fiery fighting spirit, dedication, and never-give-up attitude. He was a vital part of the Yankees' dominant era, where the team won multiple consecutive World Series championships and became an icon of American sports greatness. It was this emotionally charged style of play that captured the hearts of fans – who are now responding with love and support during this difficult time. Immediately after O’Neill’s message was shared, a host of former Yankees players and MLB figures sent messages of encouragement. Many described him as a “warrior who never gives up,” not only on the basketball court but also in life. Fans at Yankee Stadium have also begun sending banners, messages, and well wishes, showing strong solidarity for their legend. What makes Paul O’Neill’s story special is not only his legendary career, but also the deep connection between him and his fan community. In baseball, fans are often seen as the silent energy behind every victory. And in O’Neill’s case, they are now the driving force helping him through the most difficult period of his life. Even though he is no longer playing, Paul O’Neill holds a special place in the hearts of Yankees fans. He is remembered not only as a brilliant hitter, but also as an icon of resilience, fighting spirit, and loyalty. Now, in the battle off the field, those qualities are once again clearly demonstrated. Paul O’Neill’s message is more than just a tribute to his fans. It’s also a reminder that the power of sports lies not only in titles or statistics, but also in the connection between people. In his battle against illness, O’Neill received more than just support. He received love. And it is that love that is helping a Yankees legend continue to stand strong – day by day.

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