Michael Kay Rails Against Fans That Want Yankees to ‘Rebuild’ at Trade Deadline
Longtime Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay had strong words for a segment of the fanbase calling for a rebuild at this year’s trade deadline. On a recent episode of his ESPN New York radio show, Kay voiced frustration at the idea that the Yankees — a team traditionally known for contending — should punt on the 2025 season and sell off assets.
“This is not Kansas City. This is not Oakland,” Kay said. “The Yankees don’t rebuild — they retool. You don’t tear it all down when you have Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole in their primes.”
The Yankees have struggled through a tough stretch of the season, slipping in the standings after a hot start. Injuries, inconsistent pitching, and a lack of offense have led some fans and pundits to suggest the team consider selling veteran players like Clay Holmes or Anthony Rizzo and start focusing on the future.
Kay, however, doesn’t see that as a viable option.
“You think Judge wants to go through a rebuild? You think fans paying top dollar for tickets want to hear ‘wait until 2027’?” Kay asked rhetorically. “This isn’t fantasy baseball. You don’t give up when you’re still in striking distance of a Wild Card.”
He emphasized that with key players returning from the injured list and some potential trade upgrades available, the Yankees still have a shot to make a postseason run — something ownership and management are likely to pursue.
Kay’s comments sparked debate on social media, with some agreeing that the Yankees should always play to win, while others pointed to the long-term benefits of a reset.
Still, Kay’s stance was clear: “You rebuild when there’s no other option. The Yankees have options. They have stars. They’re not waving the white flag — and they shouldn’t.”
Whether the front office listens or not remains to be seen, but the trade deadline just got a little more dramatic in the Bronx.
