Video Vault: Barton Believes Yankees Must Fix Catcher, Bullpen Before Deadline

South Shore Press Sports Director and Managing Editor Stefan Mychajliw sat down with Sports Director Tom Barton to discuss the Yankees' biggest needs ahead of the trade deadline.

Barton believes catcher and bullpen remain New York's most pressing concerns as the club chases the AL East.

Stefan Mychajliw: Tom, the Yankees have problems at catcher. What are they going to do?

Tom Barton: "They have to make a move. You can't win a championship with the catchers they have right now. Austin Wells has regressed, and while he may still have a future, it can't be this season."

Stefan Mychajliw: A lot of people mention Ryan Jeffers.

Tom Barton: "That's what I don't understand. His injured list stint has gone from days to weeks to months. I'm skeptical he'll come back looking like the player the Yankees think they're getting."

Stefan Mychajliw: So who's your target?

Tom Barton: "Hunter Goodman from Colorado. That's my guy. The Yankees have enough pitching prospects to make a deal, and Goodman is the catcher I'd pursue."

Stefan Mychajliw: What else are you hearing?

Tom Barton: "Everyone talks about Anthony Volpe and Jazz Chisholm, but the real need is bullpen, bullpen and more bullpen."

Stefan Mychajliw: How concerned should fans be about Giancarlo Stanton?

Tom Barton: "Very concerned. What was supposed to be a minor issue has lasted months. Every setback creates another hole in the lineup."

Stefan Mychajliw: It's only July. Is it time to panic?

Tom Barton: "Not overall, but the bullpen is an immediate concern. The more those relievers are used now, the less they'll have left in September and October. Catcher and bullpen have to be addressed before the pennant race really begins."