Yankees Trade Rumors: Cashman Doesn't Want To Deal

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has consistently said he would prefer not to make any deals as the MLB Trade Deadline approaches, and he reiterated that stance on Wednesday, saying "I like the talent we have."

"I think we have quality players at every starting position," Cashman said. "I think we have quality players at every spot in the rotation and every spot in the bullpen. There are guys who are coming off the DL. I think we have a quality bench. I think the only question you could ask is, do you want to take on the payroll and more importantly distribute future assets for what might be considered marginal upgrades."

One of those players who should be coming off the disabled list is speedy left fielder Brett Gardner, who played only nine games before being shelved by an elbow injury. Gardner has had a couple of setbacks during previous rehab stints, so there is still no guarantee that he will make a successful return this time.

What if he doesn't, and has to be shut down for the season? Would that be enough to push Cashman to make a deal?

We have already discussed Justin Upton and Shane Victorino as trade options. Upton can block a deal to the Yankees and is probably too expensive, anyway. Victorino, the Philadelphia Phillies outfielder, seems likely to have other suitors.

MLB Trade Rumors recently posted a list of potentially available outfielders, a list that included Upton and Victorino. Players who might be able to fill Gardner's role would include Peter Bourjos (Los Angeles Angels), Denard Span (Minnesota Twins), Coco Crisp (Oakland Athletics), Juan Pierre (Philadelphia Phillies and David DeJesus (Chicago Cubs).

Nobody there all that exciting, to be honest. Still, names to keep in mind if Gardner ends up being shut down once again.