Overview
- Sports Illustrated’s Patrick McAvoy projected James Wood as a top trade candidate and named the Yankees, Padres and Astros as plausible destinations.
- The Sporting News outlined a Yankees fit in left field with Cody Bellinger moving to center to displace struggling outfielder Trent Grisham, who is hitting .145 with limited power.
- For San Diego, the analysis suggested Wood could play a corner spot opposite Fernando Tatis Jr. or take over designated hitter duties from Gavin Sheets.
- Wood’s value stems from production and price, with The Sporting News citing a .954 OPS and seven home runs through 21 games this season after a 31‑homer All‑Star year in 2025.
- McAvoy wrote that Washington should prefer to keep the 23‑year‑old but could listen if the club falters, and Heavy echoed the Yankees link as New York seeks another middle‑order bat.