ESPN: The New York Yankees make history in 18th trade proposal with the Mets since 1966.

Since 1903, the New York Yankees have been in existence. In 1962, the New York Mets started out as an expansion franchise. It wasn’t until 1966 that the two crosstown rivals engaged in trade with one another. Only 17 trades have been made between the two New York teams in the 58 years that have passed.

A well-known Yankee blog has now proposed making it 18 through a transaction that it claims is “win-win” for both sides. Additionally, it would be the biggest trade between the Yankees and Mets since the Yankees traded three-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year outfielder David Justice from the Bronx to Queens on December 7, 2001, for Mets shortstop Robin Ventura, a two-time All-Star and six-time Gold Glover.

The Yankees would give the Mets right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman and the $37 million that may still be on his deal in exchange for two-time All-Star and 2022 National League hitting champion Jeff McNeil. “I never wanted Stroman, but pitching is always in demand, and even though he doesn’t ‘fit’ on our roster anymore, he certainly would on many other teams,” Bleeding Yankee Blue blog senior managing editor Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa commented. “Pitching is needed by the Mets…. This is where the win-win situation arises.

McNeil signed a $50 million, four-year contract with the Mets ahead of the 2023 season to avoid arbitration. However, McNeil had a club option for the last year, which meant he could become a free agent following the 2026 campaign. McNeil, 32, is a versatile defender as well. He has played both corner outfield positions and every infield position but shortstop throughout his seven-season career.

Gleyber Torres signed a free agency contract with the Detroit Tigers, and the Yankees are still looking for an infielder to replace him. The second half of 2024 saw a sharp decline in Stroman’s performance. The postseason roster did not include him. The Yankees, however, owe him $18.5 million for the next season and a further $18.5 million for 2026 if he reaches the target of pitching 140 innings. Since Max Fried joined the Yankees’ rotation as a free agent, Stroman has no realistic position on the Bronx Bombers’ payroll or pitching staff.

Will the 18th agreement between the two New York clubs be a “win-win” for both parties? There are 71 days left till opening day as of Tuesday.