MLB trade rumors: Yankees helping Mariners after Robinson Cano suspension?

With second baseman Robinson Cano suspended, the Yankees could match up on a trade with the Seattle Mariners before the July 31, 2018 (7/31/18) non-waiver trade deadline. Would New York deal Neil Walker or Brandon Drury to Seattle?

Depth is a great thing to have.

For the Yankees, a deep roster is going to be a challenge over the next few months. But it also can act as a blessing, guiding decisions for general manager Brian Cashman.

From Brandon Drury in Triple-A to Tyler Austin’s powerful bat possibly making the Yankees think twice about trading or demoting him, to high-end talent available to make a deal, the Yankees are loaded.

In time, that can also mean dealing off a veteran to help restore the system, likely in anticipation of using some youngsters to deal for an ace.

Due to Robinson Cano’s 80-game suspension in Seattle, the Mariners may be a trading partner for the Yankees this summer. The Boston Globe‘s Nick Cafardo speculated on that idea.

With Cano suspended for 80 games due to a PED violation, the Mariners are scrambling to figure out second base. Center fielder Dee Gordon is taking grounders at his old position, but the M’s are looking around. Could the Mariners be a possible landing spot for Jackie Bradley Jr. if they decide to put Gordon at second? The Red Sox would likely want bullpen help and/or a prospect. If the M’s shop for a veteran second baseman, the Yankees have Neil Walker and Brandon Drury while the Red Sox have Eduardo Nunez and Brock Holt.

If Walker’s job is now in question after Austin’s impressive surge, Walker could fit Seattle. If the Yankees are ready to hand Miguel Andujar the third-base job full time, perhaps a good prospect could come back for Drury.

Machado or Harper?

Cano, the ex-Yankees star, can return later this season but isn’t eligible for the playoffs if the Mariners qualify.

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