The expectation all along has been that the New York Yankees would deal from their prospect pool to make upgrades before the MLB trade deadline.
The New York Post's Joel Sherman wrote Thursday, though, that MLB slugger Ben Rice could also be involved in trade talks.
Sherman added that it'd need to be a big offer for the Yankees to "even consider" moving Rice.
It's still notable news, though, and puts the Yankees in a tough spot.
Rice has some of the best exit velocity numbers in baseball, and his weighted runs created-plus statistic says he's been 21 percent better than a league average hitter.
The Yankees have also utilized Rice more at catcher recently. That kind of bat behind the plate is a huge plus, and Rice can also play first base.
New York will have an opening at first by next season, if Paul Goldschmidt doesn't sign a new contract after his expires.
At the same time, teams have to give a bit to get a bit. Rice would have the potential to bring back a nice haul.
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The Yankees need to be careful, though. The 26-year old left-handed hitter has star potential.
He could also be a clutch postseason performer if he lines a few baseballs beyond the right-field porch in Yankee Stadium.
Whatever the Yankees decide to do with Rice before the deadline could have huge implications for years to come.
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