New York Yankees: Was the Silent Trade Deadline a Good Move or Bad?

For the first time in seemingly an eternity, the New York Yankees were not active in the July 31 trade deadline.  Not only were they not active, they were non-existent, making zero moves to upgrade their team for the final playoff run.  It may seem like a complete bust, but a few grades can be given to their deadline vacation this year.

In terms of their overall performance, the Yankees deserve a solid "B."  It wasn't bad, but it wasn't exceptional either.  

On one hand, they held off from their usual panic of unloading the farm system for a player they hope will carry the team to October.  Instead, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman stood pat, refusing to give in to requests of multiple gems in the minor leagues for a top-line player.  

An example would be Ubaldo Jimenez.  The Rockies were asking for Jesus Montero, the Yankees' catching prize, as well as pitchers Dellin Batances and Manny Banuelos, and current star Ivan Nova.  

If the Jimenez of 2010, a pitcher who started 15-1, was being acquired, it might be a worthy trade.  It was too much of a risk, however, and Cashman held the offer back.

As far as improving the team for the postseason, the best the Yankees can receive is a "D" grade. Though their strategy of holding what they have as good enough is sufficient, there were needs that could help them out in the end.  

The primary addition necessary was another left-hander in the bullpen to relieve the pressure of Boone Logan, allowing Girardi to make more moves against tough lefties, specifically Red Sox sluggers David Ortiz and Adrian Gonzales.  

However, according to an article on ESPNNewYork.com by Andrew Marchand stated that Betances, the left-handed minor league star prospect, may be the solution down the road.

The Yankees' confidence in their own team can't be unappreciated, believing their team is good enough to compete for a World Series as is, but their inability to improve the team in any fashion must be a bit troubling.  

They did an excellent job not to blow up their minor league system, but not taking any strides to top the Red Sox in any way could prove to be a painful failure in the coming months.  However, if their veteran arms hold up, and their veteran bats heat up, they have as good a shot as any to take the title.