MLB trade rumors: Blue Jays’ Curtis Granderson to Yankees or rival AL contender?

If the Yankees don’t trade for Curtis Granderson, one of a pair of American League contenders could snatch him.

The countdown is upon us.

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With less than two weeks until the August 31 waiver trade deadline, MLB contenders must finalize moves and put together rosters that can be eligible for postseason play.

For the Yankees, that likely means having to decide on acquiring one more bat for the stretch run–especially if slugger Aaron Judge isn’t going to be ready soon. If a slugger–especially one familiar with New York and a pennant race–is what’s needed, a familiar name is available: Curtis Granderson.

Dots connected the ex-Yankee to his former team last month. That hasn’t stopped during August.

While a deal could still happen, the Yankees could be caught flat-footed if a rival AL contender jumps up to steal the left-handed hitter. According to Nick Cafardo of The Boston Globe, that’s exactly what could happen.

Another great clubhouse guy who could be a strategic bat off the bench or a platoon for the Yankees, A’s, or maybe even the Indians. Granderson brings that natural leadership aspect to a team that’s been exhibited virtually everywhere he’s played. Toronto bench coach DeMarlo Hale said Granderson has been a tremendous leader.

Granderson, 37, owns a .241/.342/.431 slash line with 11 home runs this season. That production could replace what the Yankees have been getting from Shane Robinson and Neil Walker in Judge’s absence.

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If Granderson lands in Oakland or Cleveland, the Yankees could have to deal with him in the American League playoffs.

Joe Giglio may be reached at jgiglio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoeGiglioSports. Find NJ.com on Facebook.