Yankees Rumors: New York has Room for Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson

With their sights set on trimming payroll moving forward, there have been rumblings about how the New York Yankees may have to make some difficult decisions concerning players.  Two of the main players in question were All-Star’s Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson.  Many speculated that it would be tough for the Yankees to keep both, and that the club would ultimately have to decide which slugger it would be keeping.  However, Yankees president Randy Levine told Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com yesterday that New York’s plan includes Cano and Granderson, not one or the other.

Because of the hefty luxury tax penalties involved, the Yankees have made it clear that they will get below the $189 million salary threshold.  While this may be doable in 2012, the budget ‘cut’ has some wondering how the Yankees future roster will be impacted, especially with so many players commanding so much money down the road.

Granderson and Cano are two of New York’s biggest and youngest stars.  However, both of their current deals are up following the 2013 season, causing many to speculate that a return beyond next year is unlikely considering how much money the pair will command.

Levine told Heyman that the Yankees have a plan that includes a ‘full championship team’.  However, based on the numbers, it does seem difficult to see how it will all fit together down the road.

Beyond the question of can the Yankees keep Cano and Granderson, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has been asked if New York will be able to add high-profile talent from outside the organization.  Cashman said he wouldn’t rule out the Matt Cain’s and Cole Hamels’ of the world, just as long “as it adds up”.

Regardless of what Levine says, if the Yankees truly want to hold fast to their $189 million target, tough decisions will have to be made.  New York may have to get creative like they did this year in acquiring Michael Pineda.  However, $189 million should still buy one heck of a team.

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

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