With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, the New York Yankees have thus far steadfastly refused to include any of their top prospects in discussion with other teams.

In reporting that the Yankees are interested in Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels, Jon Heyman of CBS Sports said "The Yankees have told all teams that have no intention to trade any of their four best prospects: Severino, Judge, first baseman Greg Bird and shortstop Jorge Mateo."


Yankee GM Brian Cashman recently told WFAN that he would be "open-mind" and that "I don't think anybody should be untouchable," but indicated he would be reluctant to part with the top players in the system because of long-term considerations.

"If you look at our roster and how it is evolving, you know going into 2016 and 2017, you see where a lot of names you just mentioned will play, or could very well play if they reach their projections, a very important part in transitioning from current guys on this roster as their contracts start to expire,” Cashman said.

History would suggest that this "don't give up the future for the present" philosophy is un-Yankee like. Is it the correct philosophy, though, and could it cost the Yankees this season? From this perspective, the answer on both counts is 'yes."

The Yankees are absolutely correct in not wanting to give up their core prospects for an over 30 pitcher, even one as good as Hamels, or for a rental player they would likely lose via free agency this offseason.

 

Severino is probably going to be part of their rotation next season. Shoot, he might be part of their staff later this summer -- either in the rotation or perhaps in a late-season 2007 Joba Chamberlain-esque type relief role. Judge is their best power-hitting prospect and it isn't difficult to see him replacing Carlos Beltran in right field next seson. Bird could be the heir apparent to Mark Teixeira at first base.

With Hal Steinbrenner and Cashman calling the shots, the Yankees have for years now wanted to drive their payroll down. Not to be less competitive or to be cheap, but because simply throwing money at every problem and signing the biggest-name veteran players in not always the answer. If the Yankees can get back to being able to incorporate some young, talented, cost-controlled players from their farm system into key roles on their team that actually that puts them in better position to be able to pick and choose when they do want to splurge on a top-flight free agent.

Of course, the philosophy comes with short-term risks. The Yankees have missed the playoffs in each of the past two seasons. They appear to be in great position to end that drought, a shocking seven games ahead in the American League East with 64 games left entering play on Tuesday.

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to be making an aggressive playoff bid, having just acquired star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and perhaps seeking pitching help before the deadline. Ace pitcher Johnny Cueto is now a member of the Kansas City Royals, and if the Yankees make the playoffs the road to the World Series likely goes through Kansas City.

Today it might not look like the Yankees need the help. They have come up with a formula. Get just enough starting pitching, then ride the power-hitting of Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira along with their dominant bullpen led by Dellin Betances and Andrew Miller.

What, though, if fragile starters Masahiro Tanaka and Michael Pineda don't make it to the finish line? Or, Betances and Miller falter because of excess work? Or Teixeira and Rodriguez fade or get hurt?

The Yankees are gambling that protecting their future doesn't hurt their present. We will find out over the next few months.