Curtis Granderson would be an impressive catch for the Yankees
This morning’s big trade rumor has the New York Yankees potentially making a move for Detroit Tigers All-Star center fielder Curtis Granderson. While this may seem strange at first, I wrote here yesterday that economic constraints are forcing some teams, including the Tigers, to trade their more expensive players. There is no official word on what the Yankees would offer, but I would imagine top prospects Austin Jackson and Jesus Montero, as well as the Yankees extensive collection of young pitchers, would have to be in the discussion. Joel Sherman of the NY Post wonders if the Yankees can take advantage of their financial situation by taking on an additional big contract to lower the price on Granderson. Edwin Jackson could even be part of the discussion if the Yankees want to make this a blockbuster. I think Granderson would be a great fit on the Yankees due to his combination of power and speed and their need for athletic outfielders. While the Yankees outfield in 2009 was solid, there is no one on the roster who can get up and rob a “cheap” home run, and that could definitely be a factor in the homer friendly Yankee stadium.
The Yankees appear ready to battle the Red Sox for the services of Roy Halladay. Though there have been no official statements, the Daily News reports that a source with knowledge of the Yankees’ thinking said they are already planning on making an attempt to sign either Halladay or Cliff Lee if both become free agents after next season. If that truly is the case, the Yankees might just wait it out. However, if Boston is their main competition for Hallady it could become a matter of blocking their rivals from acquiring a difference making talent.
The Mets are trying to trade Luis Castillo (possibly to the Dodgers) to make room for an Orlando Hudson signing. The Mets seem to be very high on O-Dog, and Hudson has even said that he was a Mets fan growing up so a Castillo deal is probably an inevitability. Apparently the Mets also have an interest in Chone Figgins, but possibly as a left fielder.
Both the Mets and Yankees are already salivating over next year’s free agent class now that Joe Mauer has put off contract extension talks. Mauer became the first catcher to win 3 batting titles, will probably win the MVP, and will demand a hefty pay day next winter. Every big market team will be interested in the 26 year old Mauer, and he could end up with “A-Rod money”.
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News and notes around the league: Marlins 2B Dan Uggla is on the market, a move to the outfield is possible…Buster Olney tweeted that the Indians are fielding offers for closer Kerry Wood…the Mariners have re-signed Ken Griffey Jr for one year, potentially ruling out a Matsui signing…the Braves have signed SP Tim Hudson to a 3-year $28 million extension.
Tags: hot stove, joe mauer, MLB, new york mets, new york yankees, trade rumors
