Robbie Ray
Robbie Ray has been a fixture in trade rumors for over a year now. This may be the time that a trade actually comes to fruition.
A typically solid arm, Ray has struggled this season. He has posted an 8.59 ERA and a 1.909 WHiP in his 22 innings. The biggest issue is that his command has been a disaster this season; while he has struck out 27 batters, Ray has issued 20 walks and uncorked four wild pitches. Ray has also been missing badly in the zone, having allowed seven home runs.
The metrics do not paint a much better picture. He ranks in the bottom 5% of the league in terms of barrel rate, while his 91.9 MPH exit velocity and 48.3% hard hit rate are in the 15th and 12th percentiles respectively. Ray just is not what he had been in years past.
Given those struggles and his impending free agency, Ray may not cost much in a trade. He would be a lottery ticket for the Yankees, one that could pay off in a big way if he returns to the form that made him such a prized option during the offseason. Ray could also be a major bust, especially if his command issues continue.
The New York Yankees need help in the starting rotation. Robbie Ray would be a gamble, but he could make a major impact.