The New York Yankees are on the cusp of a World Series appearance, holding a strong 2-0 lead in the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians. But regardless of how this postseason ends, there’s already buzz around potential roster shake-ups, with Nestor Cortes emerging as a top trade candidate. While Cortes was a key starter just two seasons ago, injuries and a 4.09 ERA since have cast uncertainty over his future in New York. His absence due to a left flexor strain has led some insiders to speculate that he could be dealt to fill other needs in the Yankees’ lineup.
Grant Young of Sports Illustrated recently proposed a trade that would send Cortes to the Dodgers in exchange for veteran slugger Max Muncy. With the Yankees’ corner infield positions struggling in 2024, Muncy—who has experience at both first and third base and recently hit two big homers this postseason—could be the perfect fit. And with the Dodgers’ rotation thinned by injuries, adding a versatile left-hander like Cortes for 2025 would help them shore up their pitching staff as they chase another playoff run.
Cortes has already drawn interest around the league, especially after he was briefly shifted to the bullpen in September, a move he openly opposed. In an October report, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter called him one of the top 25 trade candidates, noting that teams were interested even during the 2024 trade deadline. With his solid 3.77 ERA and impressive 162 strikeouts in 174.1 innings, Cortes could be highly appealing for a team like the Dodgers in need of reliable arms.
For the Yankees, Muncy offers consistent power at the plate, posting a career OPS+ of 123. Though he’s signed through 2025, his age (34) and upcoming free agency in 2026 could make his price manageable. If this trade materializes, it could address major needs on both sides. So, is trading Cortes for Muncy the Yankees’ answer to solidifying their infield while keeping their rotation deep? Let the offseason debate begin.
