New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays inquire about Howie Kendrick
By Aaron Somers
While there are no certainties that the team will trade Howie Kendrick, the Los Angeles Angels are receiving interest from opposing teams about the availability of their second baseman. Jon Heyman of CBS Sports notes that both the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays have reached out to the team to inquire. He also notes that the Washington Nationals and Oakland A’s may have interest in addressing their second base needs, but neither has called the Angels.
Los Angeles’ willingness to move Kendrick was first reported a few weeks ago. It is believed that the team is open to moving him or third baseman David Freese if they can bring a right-handed pitcher back in return. Kendrick has attracted more interest to date.
The Angels could withstand moving one of their starting infielders given the depth they appear to have in place already. Gordon Beckham‘s acquisition late in the summer gives them some versatility with the roster (provided he isn’t non-tendered in December) and the team has been reported to have a deal in place (though it hasn’t been finalized) with Cuban free agent Roberto Baldoquin.
Kendrick batted .293/.347/.397 this past season in 674 plate appearances. He’s due $9.5 million in 2015 in his final year before free agency.
New York is known to be looking for help in the infield, with the potential to seek an upgrade at second, shortstop, or third. The team has long liked Kendrick, as Heyman notes, as he’s a .342/.404/.480 hitter against them in 59 games. Toronto has also been in search of help at either second or third base.