MLB trade rumors: Yankees-linked Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers on $6.7 million deal gets major injury update

The New York Yankees have been connected to Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers in recent MLB trade rumors, and there is now an important update on his recovery. Jeffers, who is playing on a one-year $6.7 million contract and is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season, has taken a big step toward returning to the field.

That update is crucial because the Yankees have been looking for more offense from the catcher position, making Jeffers one of the names to watch as the trade deadline gets closer.

Quick rumor table

Latest injury update on Ryan Jeffers

The biggest development came from baseball reporter Aaron Gleeman, who reported that Jeffers has started a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul.Aaron Gleeman wrote: “Ryan Jeffers is starting a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul.

He’ll be in the Saints’ lineup at designated hitter tonight, about six weeks after surgery on a fractured left hamate bone.” This is encouraging news for both the Twins and any teams monitoring his availability before the trade deadline. If his rehab goes smoothly and there are no setbacks, Jeffers could return to Minnesota’s lineup in the near future.

Why Ryan Jeffers is being linked to the Yankees

The Yankees have received strong production from several areas of their roster, but catcher remains a position where they could use more offense.

That is where Jeffers becomes interesting.Before suffering the injury, the 29-year-old was having one of the best stretches of his career. In 37 games, he hit .295 with a .408 on-base percentage and a .541 slugging percentage. He also recorded seven home runs, 26 RBIs and a .949 OPS. Those numbers stand out for a catcher and explain why his name keeps appearing in trade discussions involving teams that need help behind the plate.

Will the Twins actually trade him?

That remains the biggest question.While Jeffers has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate, Minnesota has not committed to selling players before the deadline. The Twins are still within striking distance in the American League Central race, so their performance over the next few weeks could shape their approach. The front office may decide to keep key players if the club stays competitive. A healthy return from Jeffers would only make that decision tougher.

He could help the Twins push for a playoff spot, but he could also attract interest from contenders looking for catching help.

How a trade could impact both teams

For the Yankees, adding Jeffers would provide another right-handed bat and potentially strengthen a lineup that has looked for more production from the catcher position.For the Twins, moving Jeffers could bring back prospects or future assets, especially if they believe he may leave in free agency after the season.For now, though, the focus is on his recovery. His rehab assignment is the clearest sign yet that he is getting close to returning, and that update could have a major effect on trade talks in the coming weeks.