MLB Trade Rumors: Yankees Nearing Deal for A.J. Burnett

It appears that the New York Yankees are closing in on a trade involving starting pitcher A.J. Burnett.  While most expected the right-hander to be shipped to the Pirates, there are reportedly upwards of four clubs involved in trade talks with New York.  At this point, the Pirates, Indians and Angels have all expressed interest in Burnett.

Yesterday afternoon it was reported by ESPNNewYork.com that the Yankees and Angels were nearing a deal yesterday that would have made Burnett LA’s fifth starter and sent Bobby Abreu to New York.  However, Burnett apparently used his no-trade clause to block the trade.  While it would seem to be a nice landing spot for the veteran starter, Burnett is said to prefer to stay on the East Coast.

Those familiar with the negotiations don’t get the feeling that Burnett will block a deal to the Pirates.  It was reported this morning that there remains optimism that a trade will be reached between Pittsburgh and New York.

Still, the Yankees are apparently continuing to explore all options before agreeing on a deal.  ESPN’s Buster Olney tweeted this morning that a team other than the Pirates and Indians has made a proposal for Burnett that the Yankees are considering.  Olney added that the Yankees are “honing in” on a decision regarding Burnett.

Jim Bowden of MLB Network Radio chimed in this morning as well, noting that the Yankees and Pirates are expected to reach an agreement within the next 24 hours.  While this is Bowden’s expected outcome, he did add that the Yankees are weighing one final offer from an unnamed club.

For more on the Yankees, be sure to check out Yanks Go Yard.

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