Hal Steinbrenner calls Brian Cashman. The son channels his impetuous father and tells the Yankees general manager that one championship in two decades is unacceptable, especially when the Red Sox have won four.
Inspired by the gung-ho fervor of the Clippers and Lakers in the last few weeks, Steinbrenner tells Cashman to think title or bust. Don’t worry about expanding budget or expending prospects. Do whatever is necessary to get a parade.
This made-up scenario underscores the Yankees’ real trade deadline problem. Even if Steinbrenner were willing to do what he will not and Cashman were to act in a way he believes counterproductive to running a good organization, there is no Anthony Davis no-brainer for which to literally give up the farm.