Nationals nearing trade for Indians catcher Yan Gomes - MLB

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports that the Nationals are in “serious discussions” with the Indians regarding a trade for catcher Yan Gomes.

The Nationals already brought back Kurt Suzuki on a free agent deal, so picking up Gomes would constitute a total catching overhaul going forward. If the trade happens it’ll be a $17 million total investment for 2019, with Suzuki making $10 million this coming season (and for 2020), with Gomes making $7 million. There are also club options on Gomes for $9 and 11 million in 2020 and 2021.

Gomes, an excellent defender, has had up-and-down offensive numbers over the years. He looked to be a star in the making after posting strong numbers at the plate in 2013 and 2014, but he cratered over the next three seasons. This past season, however, he rebounded to a respectable .266/.313/.449 and hit 16 homers.

What the Nats might send back to Cleveland is unknown.

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LOS ANGELES — Giancarlo Stanton, Josh Donaldson, and Tommy Kahnle were activated by the New York Yankees ahead of their weekend series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

New York cleared three roster spots after a 1-0 loss at Seattle, optioning infielder-outfielders Oswaldo Cabrera and Franchy Cordero to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre along with left-hander Matt Krook.

Stanton, Donaldson and Kahnle all played in a rehab game for Double-A Somerset. Stanton was hitless in three at-bats in his first appearance since injuring his left hamstring on April 15.

Donaldson went 1 for 4 in his fourth rehab game as he comes back from a strained right hamstring originally sustained on April 5.

Kahnle pitched one inning, giving up one run and one hit and walking two. He has been out since spring training with right biceps tendinitis.

Aaron Boone said he wasn’t concerned about Stanton returning after playing in just one rehab game. He did say that Stanton likely will be a designated hitter for a couple of weeks after rejoining the Yankees.

New York is missing centerfielder Harrison Bader, who strained his right hamstring against the Mariners and went on the injured list the next day.

Left-hander Carlos Rodón, sidelined since spring training by a sore left forearm and an ailing back, was transferred to the 60-day injured list.