MLB Trade Rumors: Ichiro Suzuki’s Future With New York Yankees Uncertain; JJ Putz Trade Could Gain Steam

Ichiro Suzuki might be entering the final year of his legendary career, but his tenure with the New York Yankees remains uncertain as the franchise looks to make a decision on the future of the Japanese star.

The Yankees added firepower to their offense by bringing in All-Star sluggers Brian McCann, Jacoby Ellsbury and Carlos Beltran on lucrative deals. They also addressed their need to add another ace to their starting rotation by signing Japanese wonder Masahiro Tanaka to a seven-year, $155 million deal.

Despite re-tooling their roster, the Yankees are still left with a myriad of decisions needed to be made before the start of spring training. One of which is whether to part ways with Suzuki or keep him for perhaps his last crack at a World Series title.

At age 39, Suzuki's consistency and production at the plate has diminished over the past two years. Last season, the Japanese hit king batted .262 with 7 homers, 35 RBIs and 136 hits.

According to Sports Illustrated Fan Sided MLB writer Billy Brost, the Yankees could keep Suzuki and pay his $6.5 million check for the 2014 season. Though he would no longer play a major role in the team's offense, his presence would be vital for Tanaka in his first season with the Bronx Bombers.

"Sure, there are cheaper options who could probably use the big league experience such as Zoilo Almonte, but wouldn't it make more sense to keep the Yankees' newest import feeling like he has someone to turn to besides Kuroda?" Brost stated.

"Ichiro knows the pressure and expectations of having an entire nation in his corner, and the Yankees have 155 million reasons to want to hedge their bets and make sure Tanaka is comfortable and confident in his first season in the United States," he added.

On the other hand, the Yankees can still use Suzuki as a trade chip to acquire prospects, solid veterans or perhaps an up-and-coming big league hitter.

The Arizona Diamondbacks offered veteran closer J.J. Putz for Suzuki a couple of weeks ago, and it would not be surprising if the Yankees and the D-Backs revive their trade talks.

Putz recorded six saves with a 2.36 ERA and 38 strikeouts last season for the D-Backs. The 36-year-old hurler boasts a career .299 ERA with 189 saves and 585 strikeouts.