Yankees Predicted to Trade Nestor Cortes After Latest Projection

The former All-Star pitcher is still a free agent after his costly World Series mistake.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:11pm

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The New York Yankees have several former players around the league still looking for a new team, including left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes. Cortes was once an All-Star for the Yankees, but is now remembered by many fans for giving up a walk-off home run to Freddie Freeman in Game 1 of the 2024 World Series.

Why it matters

Cortes was a key part of the Yankees' rotation for several seasons, making the 2022 All-Star team. His departure would be a significant loss for the team, especially if he ends up signing with another AL East rival.

The details

Cortes, a 28-year-old left-hander, had a breakout season in 2022, making the American League All-Star team. However, his tenure with the Yankees ended on a sour note when he gave up a walk-off home run to Freddie Freeman in Game 1 of the 2024 World Series, a moment that many fans still remember.

  • Cortes was an All-Star for the Yankees in 2022.
  • In the 2024 World Series, Cortes gave up a walk-off home run to Freddie Freeman in Game 1.

The players

Nestor Cortes

A 28-year-old left-handed pitcher who was once an All-Star for the New York Yankees.

Freddie Freeman

The star first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who hit a walk-off home run off Cortes in Game 1 of the 2024 World Series.

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What’s next

It remains to be seen where Cortes will end up signing, but there is speculation that the Yankees may look to trade him to an AL East rival in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Cortes' departure from the Yankees would be a significant loss for the team, especially if he ends up signing with another AL East contender. His costly mistake in the 2024 World Series has left a lasting impact on his legacy with the franchise.