The New York Yankees have finalized their trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates, acquiring starting pitcher J.T. Brubaker and additional international signing bonus money. This deal sends the Yankees’ top prospect, Keiner Delgado, to the Pirates.
- The New York Yankees traded infielder Keiner Delgado to the Pittsburgh Pirates as part of a finalized deal for pitcher J.T. Brubaker.
- Delgado was the player to be named later in a trade initially made on March 29, 2024, and has shown significant promise in minor league seasons.
- While recovering from Tommy John surgery, Brubaker is expected to enhance the Yankees’ pitching rotation upon his return.
Details of the Trade Agreement Between Yankees and Pirates
The New York Yankees and the Pittsburgh Pirates have concluded their trade negotiations, which began with a preliminary deal on March 29, 2024.
This finalized agreement sends J.T. Brubaker, a right-handed pitcher, and international signing bonus funds to the Yankees.
In return, Keiner Delgado, previously the Yankees’ No. 20 prospect, now joins the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Keiner Delgado’s Journey and Expectations
Keiner Delgado, a 20-year-old baseball player from Venezuela, started with the Yankees in 2021 as a new international player.
He has done well in the minor leagues, getting on base often and stealing many bases. In the Dominican Summer League, he walked in 24.4% of his at-bats, a very good rate, and he continued to play well when he moved to the Complex League.
Delgado can play several positions in the infield, which makes him very adaptable. He has mainly played at second base, third base, and shortstop.
J.T. Brubaker’s Role and Recovery Progress
J.T. Brubaker, 30, has not yet appeared in a game this season for the Yankees, as he is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
He is slated to potentially return to play around the All-Star Break. His recovery is critical as he is expected to add depth to the Yankees’ starting rotation.
Brubaker’s tenure with the Pirates included 61 starts with a 4.99 ERA over three seasons, illustrating a mixed record with potential for improvement.
Future Prospects and Implications for Both Teams
The trade of Keiner Delgado to the Pirates might give him a clearer path to major league play, considering the depth of talent in the Yankees’ infield.
His performance in the minor leagues has shown promise and the need for further development.
For the Yankees, acquiring J.T. Brubaker represents a strategic move to bolster their pitching staff, particularly given his experience and impending return from surgery.
Meanwhile, the Pirates gain a potentially valuable player who could develop into a key piece of their roster in the coming years. Delgado will be eligible for the Rule 5 draft after the 2025 season, adding a strategic element to his acquisition by the Pirates.
