When the Yankees sent a package of prospects headlined by 2016 first-round pick Blake Rutherford to the White Sox last season, perhaps the biggest piece coming back was Tommy Kahnle. Sure, Todd Frazier filled a need in the infield, and David Robertson was the biggest name, but Kahnle was having the best season of the three and came with the most team control.
Kahnle was what truly gave that trade upside for the Yankees. He represented a chance to add a premier relief arm for up to four playoff runs.