Yankees Rumors: New York “Desperately” Seeking No. 2 Starter

Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com is reporting that the New York Yankees are “desperately” seeking a number two starting pitcher.  While we’re already well into the offseason, there are several options remaining, though the Yankees reportedly do not have their usual deep pockets to work with this winter.  Of the several pitchers still available, Heyman believes the Yankees “choice could come down to” Cubs right-hander Matt Garza and free agent Edwin Jackson.

This belief seems to stem from a process of elimination.

Heyman says the Yankees like former Dodgers starter Hiroki Kuroda, “but there is no certainty he wants to pitch in New York”.  The Yankees also don’t appear to be in on Jair Jurrjens (Braves), Wandy Rodriguez (Astros), Gavin Floyd (White Sox) or free agent starter Roy Oswalt.

This leaves Garza and Jackson as the two most likely options remaining.

Still, there is no guarantee the Yankees would be willing to give what it takes to acquire either starter.  Garza will cost the Yankees prospects while Jackson figures to require a long-term, multi-million dollar contract.

Those around the game are generally in agreement that the Yankees have the prospects it would require to facilitate a Matt Garza trade.  New York has the young starting pitchers Chicago covets, but the Cubs asking price is reportedly still sky-high for Garza.

While they have every right to ask for the moon for Garza, the Cubs reportedly want a package, and some even say all three, of Dellin Betances, Manny Banuelos and Jesus Montero.  The Yankees, meanwhile, are hesitant to surrender one, much less two or three, of the players listed above.

Jackson will not cost the Yankees prospects, but he carries his own significant price tag.  It was reported yesterday that the Scott Boras client is seeking a five-year deal that would likely be in the $60 million range.  While this normally wouldn’t be an issue for the Yankees, the club is reportedly looking to curtail its high-spending ways as it moves forward.

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