MLB Trade Rumors and 2014 Free Agents: Ervin Santana Attracting Interests, Brandon Phillips Could Be NY Yankees Bound If Robinson Cano Bolts Out
Ervin Santana is expected to be one of the subjects of talks once again as reports surfaced that the Kansas City Royals is preparing for his eventual departure.
According to Darren Wolfson in a post on his official Twitter account, the Minnesota Twins expressed interest in acquiring the services of the free agent pitcher.
The Twins was reportedly in deep talks with the Royals before last MLB season's trade deadline about a deal involving Santana, but Kansas City eventually decided to hold onto their pitcher since they were still in a hunt for a playoff spot during that point.
After Kansas City failed to advance to the postseason, Santana will likely be on his way out and teams, aside from the Twins, are expected to express interest. The Royals recently made a qualifying offer to Santana as reported by Dick Kaegel, which would give Kansas City draft pick as compensation if Santana denies the offer.
Meanwhile, the New York Yankees are still undecided whether to give into the demands of their star second baseman Robinson Cano, but the Yanks appear ready to make contingency moves if ever the Cano negotiation fails.
According to John Heyman of CBS Sports, aside from Detroit Tigers second baseman Omar Infante, the Yankees have also inquired about the availability of Cincinnati Reds' Brandon Phillips.
"The Yankees, looking to set themselves up in case star second baseman Robinson Cano signs elsewhere, have checked in with the Reds regarding Brandon Phillips and also asked about free-agent second baseman Omar Infante. Phillips is said to be available in the right trade, but word is, the initial price is way too steep," Heyman reported.
Phillips still has $50 million and four years left on his six-year $72.5 million contract with the Reds, but the 32-year-old second baseman is still a cheaper option for the Yankees compared to Cano, who is reportedly batting for a 10-year contract worth $300 million.