This projected Yankees-Padres Luis Gil trade could get New York the most intriguing return

Yanks Go Yard writer Stephen Parello proposes that the New York Yankees should explore a trade sending right-handed pitcher Luis Gil to the San Diego Padres in exchange for catcher Luis Campusano. Gil is out of minor league options and faces a potential non-tender after struggling following his 2024 AL Rookie of the Year campaign. The writer suggests that trading him for an equally distressed asset addresses roster issues for both clubs.

Parello argues that San Diego needs pitching depth due to rotation uncertainties, while New York reportedly seeks a right-handed-hitting complement to catcher Austin Wells. With Ethan Salas rising through the Padres' system, Parello believes the 28-year-old Campusano, who hit .265 across 71 games in 2026, could offer the Yankees the best possible return for Gil.