Yankees’ Nestor Cortes Faces Trade Uncertainty Ahead of Deadline

PHILADELPHIA – With the trade deadline looming, Nestor Cortes is left wondering if he might have just pitched his last game for the New York Yankees. As trade talks pick up, he’s aware that his name is being mentioned in potential deals.

Cortes shared that his agent has informed him about discussions, particularly involving the Yankees and Detroit Tigers over pitcher Jack Flaherty. Even though he’s scheduled to start against the Phillies on Wednesday, anything can happen before the trade deadline hits on Tuesday at 6 p.m.

“I’m just confident that the Yankees want me enough to stay here,” Cortes said, trying to stay positive amidst the swirling rumors. He noted that sometimes trades happen simply because teams are looking to address other needs, and emphasized that he’s taking each moment as it comes.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Cortes mentioned he hasn’t had any direct communication from the Yankees’ front office about a possible deal, adding, “I’m not thinking about being moved from here. If it happens, it happens.” He expressed a strong desire to remain with the team and help them win.

This season has been a rollercoaster for Cortes, who holds a record of 4-9 with a 4.13 ERA. He has performed much better at home, with a 2.48 ERA at Yankee Stadium compared to a disappointing 6.18 ERA in away games. After facing a challenging 2023 season due to a left rotator cuff injury limiting him to just 12 starts, he’s eager to prove himself as a key starter.

“Did a lot of good, some bad, still fighting, still trying to claw my way into being a proven starter and winning for this team,” Cortes reflected on his journey with the Yankees, including his standout 2022 season where he was named an All-Star.

Flaherty, who’s been tied to trade talks, is having a solid season with the Tigers, posting a 7-5 record and 2.95 ERA in 18 games. Up until now, he’s been a consistent presence for Detroit but now finds himself as a possible asset for teams like the Yankees, who are looking to strengthen their pitching staff.

Despite previous struggles, he was expected to be traded soon, especially after being scratched from a start against the Guardians. As the Yankees also freshly added outfielder Jazz Chisholm from the Marlins, they are still looking to enhance their roster ahead of their playoff push.

With their eyes on the World Series, the Yankees are actively exploring trades that could include not just Flaherty but also potential bullpen upgrades.