You have GOT to be kidding... CLIFF LEE NOT GOING TO YANKEES IN TRADE

This morning, it looked like Cliff Lee was getting ready to be fitted for pinstripes in a deal that would have sent the southpaw to the Yankees for top prospect Jesus Montero and others.

But now, it's not happening.

Reported by MLBTradeRumors, the Seattle Mariners have pulled out of the deal with the Yankees. The Yankees it seems, are stunned and disappointed and may pull away from the Lee trade talks. What is most likely to have happened is that another team topped the Yankees offer. Seattle has questions about David Adams' injured ankle which is understandable, but how could they reject Montero?

I just want to know this:

Jack Zduriencik, (The Mariners' GM) what on Earth are you thinking?! How could reject Jesus Montero, the #4 best prospect in the game? Do you honestly think you're going to get a better package?!

This morning, I was opposed to the trade because Montero was involved. However, I got used to it and I thought this was a great trade and that while it would be hard to lose Montero, you have to give to get. But just as I get over Montero, this happens. What a joke.

I'm really curious to see what package Seattle gets that could top the Yankees' offer. It looks like Lee could be headed to Texas now.

On the bright side however, the Yankees get to keep Montero, which makes me happy. Sacrificing Montero for a three month rental of Lee would have pointless. Now at least, Jesus can hopefully have a career with the Yankees.

But the deal could still happen, so we just have to wait and see.

According to RiverAveBlues:

"Buster Olney says they have concerns about the “identity” of the second player; I wonder if that means they now want someone else instead of Adams."

"The Yanks wanted to “strike aggressively, strike quickly, and get a resolution to this,” but the Mariners appear to be shopping for alternatives. The Rangers, hamstrung a bit by their financial troubles, says Sherman (Joel Sherman of the NY Post), are now “working hard” to land Lee. I’d be surprised if the Yanks are willing to keep this deal on the table much beyond first pitch tonight and if the Mariners can wrest a package from Texas better than the one Brian Cashman appears to be offering."

It appears as though the deal with the Yankees is on hold, but I'd be shocked if Seattle finds a better package of prospects. At least for now, the Yankees can keep Montero. I'd prefer for the Yankees to just get Lee in the off-season and that way they have both Montero and Lee.

I thought this was a done deal.

We'll just have to wait and see, a deal between the Yanks and Mariners could still get done.

But you have to imainge that Brian Cashman* the Yankees' GM, must be PISSED.

...for now.

*That's Brian Cashman pictured above.

Yankees trade for Cliff Lee "imminent" NOT HAPPENING

First, we heard the Mets.
Then the Rangers.
And most recently the Twins.

But now, it's the New York Yankees.

The Yankees and Seattle Mariners have agreed on a trade that would send All-Star Ace LHP Cliff Lee to the Yankees for three prospects. The deal isn't done yet, but it's close to being finished.

I woke up to 15 text messages asking me if this was true and I thought "what's going on?"

Then I went online. The first thing I thought when I saw this trade this morning: "Holy $%#^$&!"

The word so far is that the prospects are C Jesus Montero, 2B David Adams, and a Player To Be Named Later.

I'll have more when this all becomes official!

Trying to trade Javier Vazquez

Today, we heard that the Yankees have been actively kicking the tires on Cliff Lee. What's more is that the Yankees believe that they could trade for Lee if they wanted to, by offering a package built around one of their young catchers such as Austin Romine or Jesus Montero.

But wait, the Yankees have five very good, if not great, starters. How could they possibly acquire Lee if there is no room in the rotation?

The Answer? Trade someone.

CC Sabathia? Not going anywhere. A.J. Burnett? Iffy, but no. Andy Pettitte? Absolutely not. Phil Hughes? Fuhgetabatit.

Javier Vazquez?

Vazquez, who pitched for the Yankees previously in 2004, was acquired from the Atlanta Braves before 2010 in a trade that sent OF Melky Cabrera, RHP Arodys Vizcaino and LHP Mike Dunn from New York to Atlanta. Vazquez, who started the season as the team's fourth starter, struggled early, going 3-5 with an ERA in the 8.00's through April and May. Fans called for Vazquez's and GM Brian Cashman's heads, demanding the pitcher be traded and Cashman fired. However, the durable righty turned around in June and, in his last seven starts, is 4-2 with a 2.93 ERA, totaling a 7-7 record with a 4.81 ERA on the campaign.

Vazquez, 33, who makes $11.5 million this season, is a free agent at the end of the season. Many believe that the Yankees will not re-sign Vazquez, who qualifies as a Type-A free agent (meaning they get two first round draft picks) because the man they want, Lee, is also a free agent.

However, we heard today as mentioned above, that the Yankees are interested in Lee and believe that they have a package that could land them the ace left-hander. Lee is 8-3 with a 2.34 ERA and has 89 strikeouts while giving up just six (!!!) walks. He makes $9 million this season. But, trading for Lee means trading one of the current starters, and the four mentioned above are going nowhere, leaving Vazquez the lone odd pitcher out.

From Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports:
"The source, however, estimates that the Yankees’ chances of landing Lee are “less than 50 percent,” and says that such a move likely would require the team to spin right-hander Javier Vazquez to another club."

There lies the problem. What team, with Lee on the block, would trade for Vazquez, who is not having as good a year? Could the Yankees encourage a team to join them in a possible three-team trade for Lee? What would the Yankees have to give up?

Due to Vazquez's recent hot streak (4-2 with a 2.93 in seven starts) and his qualification as a Type-A free agent, the Yankees could value Vazquez higher in order to get a top prospect in return since they would be giving up a top prospect for Lee.

I've narrowed down some possible destinations for Vazquez if the Yankees were to trade him if they acquired Lee:

• Seattle Mariners - They're going to get rid of one of their best pitchers in Lee, so wouldn't the want a big league ready pitcher in return? Perhaps they'd take Vazquez from the Yankees with a prospect like Romine or Montero. That way the Mariners would get a pitcher that they could bring back next season for a cheaper salary as well as the prospects.
  

• Minnesota Twins - Have already made an offer to Seattle for Lee which includes top prospects Aaron Hicks and Wilson Ramos. Vazquez would be a good fallback option along with Dan Haren since they'll be battling with the Tigers and ChiSox for the division title.
  

• Detroit Tigers - Very shaky rotation outside of Justin Verlander, need a stable #2, but what do they have that the Yankees would want? Austin Jackson? Sure to be battling with Twins and ChiSox for division title.
  

• Chicago White Sox - Same as Tigers: shaky rotation, battling with Tigers and Twins all year, what do they have?
  

• New York Mets - They've been heavily interested in Lee, so if they feel that they can acquire him, they'll push for it and give up the prospects. If they're unable to get Lee because he goes to the Yankees, expect them to be interested in Vazquez when he becomes available. But would the Mets really want to see a top prospect, which it would most likely cost for Javy, flourish with their crosstown rival?
  

• Philadelphia Phillies - They must really regret trading Lee over the off-season. The Phillies are in third place in the NL East, four games behind the second place Mets. They're interested in Lee to backup Roy Halladay. They've been rumored as interested in re-trading for Lee. If they can't acquire Lee, they'll go for Haren, who they've been reported as scouting recently. If not Haren, expect them to call the Yankees about Vazquez. Their Farm system was rich with talent before they traded for Roy Halladay and isn't so great now outside of Domonic Brown. The Phillies are in desperation mode right now and it's getting late early for them if they want to make the playoffs. They'd probably be in a rush to trade for Vazquez if they can't get Lee.
  

• Cincinnati Reds - Interested in Lee, but questions about what they have to give up outside of first baseman Yonder Alonso that's valuable. They could look to Vazquez as back-up option, but what could they give the Yankees? Alonso would be a good guy to start with since he can also catch. The Yankees would most likely have to give up Romine or Montero for Lee, so acquiring another top prospect who can catch in Alonso would easily replace the pain of losing Montero or Romine. Acquiring Vazquez could help the Reds solidify the NL Central title.
  

• St. Louis Cardinals - Rumored to be willing to part with 2009 first round pick LHP Shelby Miller, but no one knows how serious they are. They'd probably call for Vazquez if they really need him, especially since their only two games from first place.
  

• San Francisco Giants - They're not interested in Lee according to reports, but are more interested in acquiring a bat. However, the rotation needs help outside of Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathan Sanchez. Question is still what they would have to give up.
  

• Los Angeles Dodgers - They've been scouting Lee according to reports, but some are skeptical if they can take on Lee's contract at $9 million, meaning a trade for Vazquez, who makes $11.5 million, would be unlikely.
  

• Texas Rangers - Ditto that for the Rangers. They're having problems with ownership and have declared bankruptcy.
  

Again, these teams would only be interested if Lee ends up with the Yankees. Vazquez makes more money, is older (33 to 31), and is not having as good a season as Lee. Javy has proved to be a dominant National League pitcher in inter-league play as well as his season last year with Atlanta, which could make him more attractive to an NL team. However, he would not cost as much, in prospects, as Lee would. Therefore, the team that could be most interested in acquiring Javier Vazquez is:

The Cincinnati Reds.

Why the Reds?

Like I said before, the Reds are fighting, fighting, to hold on to first place in the NL Central from the St. Louis Cardinals. Acquiring a front-of-the-line starter like Lee would make them possible division champs. However, the Reds may not have enough money to sign Lee to extension in the off-season, thus losing him to another team, such as the Yankees. That'd mean that Lee was a rental, and that the team traded premium prospect talent for a half a year's worth of Lee, despite gaining a first round draft pick if he's let go. You can't imagine that Reds' RHP Mike Leake will continue to get lucky all season, so acquiring an ace like Lee to bolster their rotation would be critical to make the playoffs. In a trade for Lee, Cincy would most certainly have to give up 1B prospect Yonder Alonso, who is blocked by Joey Votto, LHP Travis Wood, 3B Juan Francisco and another player.

Let's say in this scenario that the Yankees trade Jesus Montero/Austin Romine with 2B David Adams and a throw-in, and acquire Lee and then make Javier Vazquez available. The Reds need a pitcher now to make a playoff push. Something tells me that the Reds would be interested in acquiring a pitcher who a) they wouldn't have to give up as many prospects for and b) dominates in the NL. Sliding Vazquez in front of Leake, Bronson Arroyo and Aaron Harang would make for a great rotation in Cincinnati. As I mentioned above, if the Reds were to trade with the Yankees for Vazquez, starting the deal with Alonso, 23, would be good place to begin. Alonso has been said to be a power hitting, left handed batting first baseman/catcher. He's slumping in his first go around in Triple-AAA hitting just .253 with 5 home runs. Jesus Montero and Austin Romine are two of the game's best catching prospects and are ranked #1-#2 on the Yankees' top prospects list. Alonso, the Reds' #2 prospect, has played first base and catcher in the minor leagues.

If the Yankees give up Montero or Romine for Lee, which they most certainly would have to, acquiring Alonso for Vazquez straight-up, one for one, would ease the pain of losing one of them. Alonso could move behind the plate and take the place of Romine or Montero as one of the Yankees' top prospects. There are questions if Alonso could stay behind the plate, but if not, he could move to third base or a corner outfield slot.

So why should the Reds give up a top prospect? For starters, Vazquez is still a great pitcher and could surely help an NL team out. Secondly, he's a Type-A free agent, meaning the Yankees could simply keep Vazquez (unlikely, but who knows) and take the first round draft pick at the end of the year. Finally, the Yankees gave up a top prospect in Vizcaino for Vazquez, so they should expect a top prospect in return if they were to trade him. It'd be an extremely fair trade for both sides if the trade was just Vazquez for Alonso. Alonso is blocked by superstar Joey Votto at first base. Not only is Alonso blocked by Votto, but it doesn't seem as though the Reds plan to move the former first round pick from UMiami behind the plate anytime soon, due to questions if he can stay behind the plate. The Reds drafted catcher Yasmani Grandal, who also went to UMiami, in the first round with the 12th overall pick this year. Grandal is a more polished hitter, is younger, and is a better defensive player. The Reds may simply look to move Alonso because they have no place for him, making him even more attractive for the Yankees in a trade for Vazquez. For the Reds, Vazquez would jump immediately into Cincinnati's rotation and make them a more powerful team, most likely division champs. Vazquez is a free agent at the end of the season, but he'd probably be more signable for Cincinnati than Lee, seeing as he'd cost less and the Reds would not have to sign him to a long-term contract, maybe three or four years at the most. The Yankees would most likely have to eat some cash off Vazquez's contract to get the top prospect. This would be a great trade for both sides and makes the most sense.

The Phillies could also be interested, but I don't see what they could give up outside of Domonic Brown and Kyle Drabek, who are untouchable, since the Halladay trade depleted their system.

The Yankees should try to get a top prospect for Javy, especially since they're losing Romine or Montero. I wouldn't be surprised if they had to settle for a reasonable price though, such as a B-level prospect. Perhaps the Yankees could include Javy in the trade for Lee. Would a trade of Vazquez and Montero/Romine get a deal done for Lee?

Am I ready to write Javy off the ship so quickly? Not exactly. He's been hot recently, but he's had a shaky season and I wouldn't exactly trust him much more than Burnett in a one game playoff series. Also, the Yankees aren't going to trade CC, A.J., Andy or Phil. That being said, Javy's value is at an all-time high right now, so the Yankees could net a top prospect. It'd be the only way that Lee would fit on the team.

It seems like the Yankees could trade for Lee whenever they want to, the only difficulty is moving Javier Vazquez. A rotation featuring Sabathia, Lee, Burnett, Pettitte and Hughes is just wild. While it's not set in stone that this is to happen, it's pure speculation and only matters if Lee is acquired by New York. If the Yankees want to make the best of a trade for Lee then they would have to sign him to an extension. The next few weeks are going to be very interesting.

Update 11:03 PM: Just heard on SNY's SportsNite that the Yankees were talking a trade with the Mariners for Lee and that Vazquez would be traded to Seattle along with a prospect or two. Talks are surely heating up!

More on the Cliff Lee front

The Cliff Lee Sweepstakes are beginning to take form.

During last night's Yankees-Mariners game in which Lee pitched, scouts from the Yankees, Mets, Rangers, and Phillies were in attendance, but not scouts from the Twins or Dodgers reports Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.

He pitched a complete game against the Yankees, going 9 IP while giving up 4 runs, 2 being home runs by Yankees' right fielder Nick Swisher. Scouts are wondering if he's being overused by Seattle, seeing as his velocity dropped from 94-95 mph in his previous start, to topping out at just 92 mph last night. However, the lack of scouts hardly means that their a lack of interest in the ace left-hander.

It's been reported that Seattle would require a blue-chip prospect from what ever team they trade with. That means either C Jesus Montero from the Yankees or SS Wilmer Flores from the Mets. I wrote yesterday that Seattle wants a catcher in whatever deal they make, so for the Mets, building a deal around Flores and Josh Thole would surely net them Lee. It's known that the Mets need Lee, while the Yankees are are just interested.

The Mariners have been said to like Yankees' 2B top prospect David Adams, who is in Double-AA Trenton. Adams is currently blocked at the major league level by some guy who's leading the league in batting, I think his name is like Cano or something? Adams' future is best in another organization. Initially the Yankees would have to package Adams with a catcher, such as Montero or Austin Romine. Many would prefer the latter, as Montero is ranked as one of the top prospects in baseball, but Romine is not far off. If it's me, it's gonna hurt either way, but I'm giving up Romine. He just can't hit as well as Jesus.

So it seems as though the most likely destinations for Lee are Queens and the Bronx, we'll just have to see. I'll keep you updated.

I know you're all so unhappy that these Cliff Lee rumors are keeping me from writing my Ty Wigginton post (sarcasm).

In other news, NBA free agency kicks off tonight at midnight. Most of the buzz surrounds the big three: LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh. They met in Miami the other day to discuss their futures together, so we'll just have to see how that all plays out.

Mike Axisa over at RiverAveBlues has a column up about why the Yankees should go after Cliff Lee. It's a good read so have at it.

Yankees 2010 Trade Target: Dan Haren

Dan Haren, RHP Arizona Diamondbacks
2010 season: 16 GS, 7-6, 4.65 ERA, 108.1 IP, 1.31 WHIP

Just recently, Dan Haren proved he belonged in the discussion when talking about elite pitchers in Major League Baseball. A 3-time All-Star, Haren has been the ace of the Arizona Diamonbacks for the past three seasons, as well as the ace of the Oakland Athletics in 2007.

After a strong junior season at Pepperdine University in California, where he posted a 2.22 ERA in 17 starts, Haren was a second round draft pick, 72nd overall, in the 2001 draft by the St. Louis Cardinals. It wouldn't be long however, before Haren would make it to the show. In 2002, his first year of pro ball, he made twenty-eight starts in 2002 in A-ball Peoria and Potomac. He finished his first season in 2002 with a 2.74 ERA. Regarded as one of the Cardinals' top prospects, he started the 2003 season in Double-AA Tennessee. Haren flashed dominance, making only just eight starts with a 6-0 record and a 0.82 ERA, before being promoted to Triple-AAA Memphis and eventually making it to the Major Leagues. At just 22, Haren made his major league debut in a start against then Giants' starter Jason Schmidt. He made 14 starts in 2003, going 3-7 with a 5.08 ERA. Prior to the start of 2004, Haren was assigned to Triple-AAA, making 21 starts and going 11-4 with a 4.15 ERA before being called up in September. Haren made the playoff roster for the Cardinals that year and pitched in the World Series twice against the Boston Red Sox, throwing 4.2 scoreless IP. The Cardinals were eventually swept, and it would be the last time Dan Haren would wear a St. Louis Cardinals uniform.

Before 2005, the Cardinals were made an offer they could never refuse. The Oakland Athletics were making LHP Mark Mulder, who was 17-8 with a 4.43 ERA in 2004 and had four straight seasons of 15 or more wins, available for trade. The Cardinals pounced, and acquired Mulder for Haren, RHP Kiko Calero and the Cardinals top hitting prospect, 1B Daric Barton. The trade looked like a steal at first, especially when in 2005, Haren's first full season in Oakland, when he went 14-12 with a 3.73 ERA meanwhile Mulder was 16-8 with a 3.64 ERA. However, in 2006 Mulder missed most of the season finishing at 6-7 with a 7.14 ERA and had to have Tommy John Surgery. He would never be the same pitcher again, making just six more win-less starts in his career before retiring in 2010. Meanwhile Haren looked like he was about to emerge, as he finished 2006 with 14 wins again, going 14-13 with a 4.12 ERA. 2007 however, was when Haren put himself in the discussion for elite pitchers. In 2007, Haren finished with a record of 15-9 with a 3.07 ERA in 222.2 IP with 192 (!!!) strikeouts. He was an AL All-Star for the first time, and was selected to start the All-Star Game in San Francisco that year. At the end of the season, with Oakland finishing in third place in AL West, there was speculation that the A's might trade Haren, who had raised his stock, in order to rebuild the team.

On December 14, 2007 Haren and RHP Connor Robertson, brother of current Yankees RHP David Robertson, were traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks for six top prospects: Carlos Gonzalez, Brett Anderson, Aaron Cunningham, Greg Smith, Dana Eveland and Chris Carter. All players, except for Carter who is now the A's top prospect, have made it to the major leagues. Gonzalez and Smith (Gonzalez is a budding superstar right now) were traded after their first years in Oakland to the Colorado Rockies for Matt Holliday. Eveland was designated for assignment following the 2009 season, but pitched for the Toronto Blue Jays and Pittsburgh Pirates in 2010. Cunningham was traded to the San Diego Padres. Only Anderson, who is now the ace of the A's, and Carter remain. Seeing as how all players have panned out to be very good big leaguers, and Haren has still been an ace, the trade was deemed equal for both sides. In his first year in Arizona in 2008, Haren posted a 16-8 record with a 3.33 ERA and struck out 206 (!!!) while making the NL All-Star team. He was rewarded with a contract extension, a four-year, $44.75 million contract with a team option for the 2013 season.

In 2009, Haren went 14-10, a sure drop-off in wins, but his ERA was lowered to 3.14 and his strikeout total increased from 206 to 223 (!!!). Haren was proving why he was making $8,250,000 million per season, as he made the NL All-Star Team for the second time. 2010 has not been as kind to Haren. He's currently 7-6 with a 4.65 ERA with an OBA of .280, his highest since his .293 mark his rookie season, but has 109 strikeouts pitching on a last place Arizona team. Recently the Diamondbacks have said they are not open to trade but many speculate that that will change soon, especially since they already traded Connor Jackson. Analysts have speculated that outside of OF Justin Upton and RHP Ian Kennedy, just about every D-back is available for trade, meaning Haren would be quite the commodity.

Haren throws a 91–94 mph fastball that has great movement. He also has a dirty, sharp split fastball. His splitter is his plus pitch and his main strikeout pitch. He also throws an occasional curveball and changeup, as well as a slider. In 2010, Haren has developed an 86-90 mph cut fastball that he credits for his success. Haren has excellent control of his pitches, resulting in one of the best K/BB ratios in the league. Haren's only flaw is that he is prone to giving up home runs. Haren's great ability to change speeds and throw any pitch on any count goes against scouting reports, making it incredibly hard to hit him.

I also gathered all information on Haren from MLBTradeRumors' posts on Haren.

- The Yankees, Twins, Nationals, Cardinals, and Tigers had scouts watching Dan Haren's most recent start.
- Arizona will probably not want to keep both Dan Haren and Edwin Jackson since they combine to make over $20MM next year, but Haren's value isn't what it once was. One baseball person told Rosenthal that "[Haren]'s not at the top of anyone's list, he's just another name.
- Dealing Dan Haren could help replenish Arizona's thin farm system, writes MLB.com's Steve Gilbert.
- Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times thinks Dan Haren would be a "perfect fit" for the Angels.
- Presumably, the D'Backs would have to be blown away by a package of multiple young arms to consider trading Dan Haren.
- The Diamondbacks have been meeting about making major changes because of their slow start, and one such move could involve trading ace Dan Haren for a boatload of prospects.
- Upton and Kennedy will not be dealt, and Mark Reynolds is likely to stay, but the D’Backs would consider moving others. They would listen on Dan Haren, though the club might prefer to keep him if they believe they can contend in the near future.

From MLBTradeRumors.
- On trading his players, from D-backs' GM Josh Byrnes: "We'll explore a lot of possibilities and see where we end up," said Byrnes. "I do think a lot of our players are guys we value and want to keep and I think if we're going to make trades, we'll have to get the type of things - particularly young pitching depth - that would make sense to us."
- On trading star players:"There's a good chance, yeah," Byrnes said. "We aren't where we need to be in the standings and as far as sort of the things we'd like to do to adjust the roster, there's also payroll considerations as we try to sort of get ready for next year."

Today, in Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe's: latest article, he listed that Haren has been made basically available and that teams have sent scouts to watch Haren pitch. Among the interested teams: The New York Yankees.

From Cafardo's article:
"1. Dan Haren, RHP, Diamondbacks — Scouts from the Yankees, Twins, Nationals, Cardinals, and Tigers all came out to watch his last start, a 9-3 loss to the Yankees in which he went seven innings and allowed six hits and three runs. It will be interesting to see whether the Diamondbacks wind up dealing their best starter and whether anyone will break the bank to get him."

Mike Silva of New York Baseball Digest responded to Cafardo's article:
"The Yankees are “in” the Cliff Lee sweepstakes, but only if the price drops to an acceptable level. If they offered a couple of second tier prospects to Arizona for Haren would they bite? Would Burnett’s struggles amp up their interest in aggressively pursuing a starter?"

So, it appears, despite the D-backs denying it, that Arizona is ready to trade their stars. And, not surprisingly, the Yankees are interested in Dan Haren. Haren, 29, would most likely be the No. 2 starter on the Yankees behind CC Sabathia. Due to A.J. Burnett's recent struggles, the Yankees may be willing to trade for Haren. Recently, until today's interest in Haren, the Yankees were connected to the Seattle Mariners' LHP Cliff Lee, seen as the best pitcher on the trading block who sports a 6-3 record with a 2.39 ERA (in the AL by the way) and has an OBA of .227! There's one obstacle with Lee however: he's set to be a free-agent at the end of the season and is interested in exploring the free-agent market, making it possible that if traded to New York that he could leave, although it's unlikely if that were to happen since the Yankees have the most money.

So why would trading for Haren make sense for the Yankees, especially when Lee could be traded for or signed in the off-season? Well for starters, Lee is 32 and Haren is 29. Pitchers tend to lose their effectiveness in their mid-30's, and Lee has only been a truly dominating effective pitcher since 2008, while Haren is still young enough to have dominant years left. Also, Haren is still signed through 2013, while Lee is a free-agent curious in exploring the market. Haren's making about $8.2 million per season and Lee, seeing as how dominant he's been recently, would demand at least $20 million per season. Technically, the Yankees could sign Lee as a free-agent, rather than paying the prospects in a trade for him or Haren during the season, which would make more sense for the future. In 2007, prior to the trade of Haren to Arizona, the Yankees were interested and scouted him. They didn't get him, obviously, but it shows that they were and still are, interested in Haren.

However, there is the cost of prospects that Haren could cost. Seeing the amount of talent that Arizona gave up for Haren in 2007, you'd have to imagine that they would demand the same quality prospects, especially from the Yankees. Dealing Haren would definitely help Arizona in attempts to rebuild, as they would get a boatload of prospects. Josh Byrnes said (see above) that the team wants to acquire young pitching depth. Arizona has said that they would have to be "blown away" to deal Haren. The D-backs value Haren very highly, as seen by his contract, which they would most likely be forced to pay in any trade. If the D-backs have to pay Haren's contract, then they would expect greater prospects. If they don't have to pay the contract, they would probably not expect as great prospects. For the Yankees that is a win, because they can afford to pay Haren, however their tight budget may force Arizona to pay the contract and the Yankees would have to pay with the prospects. That means that the Yankees would have to give up at least two top pitching prospects as well as a few position players. A likely trade would involve the Yankees giving up RHP Zach McCallister, RHP Andrew Brackman, C Austin Romine, and an INF such as Ramiro Pena. That's an awful lot to give up, seeing as McCallister, Brackman and Romine take up Nos. 2, 4, and 10 on their top prospects list. But, you have to give to get, and Haren is a once in an era talent. However, Haren is not having a stellar year, so the Yankees could use that to bargain with Arizona in order to lessen the prospects. One obstacle with acquiring Haren would be his desire to remain in Arizona, where he and his family reside all year. However, Haren does not have a no-trade clause in his contract, so Arizona can trade him anywhere without his say in the deal. So it's an obstacle, but a minor one that wouldn't really have any effect.

Haren would fit perfectly behind Sabathia in the Yankees rotation, and since he's signed through 2013, he'd be part of the team for future seasons. His presence would allow the Yankees to skip a few of Phil Hughes' starts this season in order to limit his innings. He's familiar with the American League when he played with Oakland, so he wouldn't be overwhelmed at first by American League hitting. A rotation of Sabathia, Haren, Burnett, Andy Pettitte, Javier Vazquez and Hughes would be the best rotation in baseball. For 2011, the Yankees would have four spots in their rotation settled with Sabathia, Haren, Burnett and Hughes because of Pettitte's free agency and chance of retirement. If Pettitte retires and Lee reaches free agency, and let's say the Yankees sign him, could you imagine that rotation? It's highly unlikely, but it's fun to think about. Haren would be a much cheaper option than Lee, salary wise.

So why would I rather acquire Haren than Lee? He's younger, cheaper, and signed through 2013. Giving up the prospects would hurt, but prospects are just that: prospects. They have projections, but it only matters if the prospect pans out and lives up to expectations (see Ben McDonald), so I'd be fine with giving up the prospects, just as long as Jesus Montero, Slade Heathcott and Manny Banuelos are not involved. Haren is familiar with the AL, so he'd be comfortable. As well, he's average almost 200 strikeouts per season since 2008, that's just dominance. Haren's one of my favorite pitchers and I'd love him to come to the Yankees.

If I'm the Yankees, I'm on the phone with Arizona right now trying to deal for Haren.

Yankees 2010 Trade Target: Lance Berkman

Lance Berkman, 1B/OF Houston Astros
2010 season: 55 G, .237/.341/.384, 6 HR, 29 RBI

As recently as last week, we heard rumors that the Yankees had scouts following the Houston Astros watching Lance Berkman, just in case the Astros decide to make him available via trade. By adding a power bat in "The Big Puma" Berkman, the Yankees would have a very dangerous offense. The face of the Houston Astros since the retirement of Craig Biggio, Berkman has slugged 21 or more home runs every full season in the big leagues, including a career high 45 in 2006, his best year, in which he batted .315 with 136 RBI and finished 3rd in the MVP voting. Berkman has slugged more than 40 home runs twice in his career, 42 in 2002 and 45 in 2006, as well has slugging over 30 or more three times, 34 in 2001, 30 in 2004, and 34 again in 2007. Add that to five seasons of 20 home runs or more: 21 in 2000, 25 in 2003, 24 in 2005, 29 in 2008, and 25 in 2009. He's also driven in over 120 RBI three times: 126 in 2001, 128 in 2002, and a career high 136 in 2006. He's also had six seasons of over 100 RBIs. He's had four seasons of over .300 batting averages with a career high .331 in 2001, .316 in 2004, .315 in 2006, and .312 in 2008. Add that all together and Berkman has a career batting line of .297 AVG/.409 SLG/.549 OBP, .959 OPS, 319 HR, 1070 RBI, and 1622 hits. A slugger to say the least.

It's not a secret that the Yankee offense right now is struggling. They got bombarded by the D-backs last night, after a great pitched game by Rodrigo Lopez, limiting the Yankees to four runs in last night's 10-4 loss. However, a case can be made that Berkman, 34, may not be able to help the Yankees. This season has been Berkman's worst career season, having career lows in AVG, SLG, OBP, and HR. There's also the contract issue. Berkman makes $14.9 million this year, and also has a no-trade clause, meaning he'd have to waive his clause to be traded to the Yankees. I'm not sure that the Yankees would be so willing as to pay all of that contract. That may not be a problem however, as recently Astros' owner Drayton McLane said that the organization would be willing to absorb salary in a trade depending on the offer. Perhaps if the Yankees made the Astros a strong enough offer, the Astros would eat Berkman's salary.

But there is yet another issue with trading for the Rice University graduate Berkman. It's well known throughout baseball that McLane likes to keep his favorite players, Berkman being one of them. Over the years he's shown resistance to trading players such as Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, and Roy Oswalt. However, due to the Astros' past under .500 seasons, including another one this year at 26-44, McLane may be forced to trade the switch-hitting Berkman in order to rebuild the organization by acquiring prospects with high potential.

Yet there are still more issues, the most important being where would Berkman play on the Yankees? First base is occupied for the next seven years, and the Yankees already have two corner outfielders who play better defense than Berkman. The obvious position for Berkman would be DH on the Yankees. This presents another problem due to the health questions surrounding Jorge Posada, who has shown his signs of age and cannot catch everyday, forcing him to DH. The Yankees would like to keep his bat in the lineup on days he does not catch, but if they acquire Berkman, Posada would be forced to ride the bench a few times per week. To me, it seems as though Berkman may not have a spot on the team, similar to Adam Dunn, who I profiled a few days ago.

Then there is always the issue of prospects. I'm pretty sure every Yankee fan knows that the Astros starting point would be with Jesus Montero or Austin Romine. The Astros would require a top prospect in the deal, but most likely two if the Yankees wanted the Astros to eat Berkman's contract. I think a deal would have to consist of at least an A-level prospect, a Bminus-level prospect, and at least two C-level types. That means a deal of C Austin Romine, RHP Mark Melancon, LHP Wilkin De La Rosa and 2B David Adams.

If I were the Yankees I would not trade for Berkman. I think that the offense could survive with another bat that could cost less prospects-wise. I also think that the salary is an issue. The Yankees are reportedly on a "budget" and I'm sure they don't feel like adding $14.9 million to the payroll. I don't think it'd hurt the team if they acquire Berkman, but he's not having a good year and not having a good year playing in the weak NL Central, meaning he'd most likely have difficulty adapting to the strong pitching of the AL East. And he's 34, meaning his best days of hitting 30 home runs are probably behind him. While I've always liked Berkman, I do not think he has a place on the Yankees and I'd rather spend the prospects and money on someone else who's having a better year and is less expensive. Sorry Puma.

Yankees 2010 Trade Target: David DeJesus

David DeJesus, OF Kansas City Royals
2010 season: 67 G, .331/.403/.494, 5 HR, 31 RBI

David DeJesus is a name familiar to most Yankees fans. DeJesus, in recent years, has been connected to the Yankees through trade rumors. The Brooklyn native is enjoying a breakout season this year, hitting a career high .331 AVG this season with a career high .494 SLG % while playing stellar defense for the Royals. One thing DeJesus has been credited for in his career is being a patient hitter. In his career, the highest season strike out total for DeJesus was 87 K's in 2009. He also draws his walks, having a career high of 64 in 2007, and ranging anywhere from 33 to 64 in his career. His ability to take pitches and have good plate discipline has resulted in a career OBP of .361, meaning he is on base 36% of the time. He's also been a great hitter throughout his career, with a career batting average of .290 on the spot. While not known for his power (career high 13 in 2009) or speed (career high 11 in 2008). Although an average outfielder, he is known for making great plays in the outfield.

DeJesus, 30, brings a lot to the table for the Yankees. A left-handed batter, he can play all three outfield positions and is extremely versatile. He makes $4.7 million this season, and has a club option of $6 million for the 2011 season which the Royals can pick up or decline. So if the contract is declined, the Yankees could always sign him in the offseason. The Royals, 29-40 (4th place in the AL Central) are 11 games out of first place. Sources indicate that they are ready to trade players, hoping to rebuild for the 2011 season. The Yankees could be major players for DeJesus, a graduate of Rutgers University, who they've been linked to and liked in the past. According to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, the Royals "are said to be asking for more return than is acceptable to the suitors." He also lists the Yankees, Red Sox, and Padres as suitors for the outfielder.

If it is true that the Royals may be asking for a lot, the Yankees may back out. If the Royals were to ask for one of the catchers, either Montero or Romine, I would say "no thanks." As much of a fine player as DeJesus is, a 30 year-old outfielder who is enjoying a career year is not worth a top prospect, especially when the Yankees have a set outfield as it is. If I were the Yankees, and the Royals approached me about a possible trade for DeJesus, I would give up a B-level prospect, such as RHP Mark Melancon, with a few C-level guys such as 2B David Adams or RHP David Phelps, but no more than that.

Acquiring DeJesus would have to require one of the outfielders, most likely Nick Swisher, or DeJesus, DHing full time. While I think he would be a great fit on this team, being a New York native and a fine player, I would be anxious to see how the Yankees would use him. There is always the question of free agency however, especially with Carl Crawford, who the Yankees covet, most likely to hit the market. Many predict the Yankees will sign Crawford, but on the flip side, with the recent production of the Yankees' outfield this season, many sources have changed their beliefs due to the trio of Gardner-Granderson-Swisher's performance. Acquiring DeJesus would also most likely keep the Yankees from signing Crawford, especially if he continues to keep us his strong play, they would most likely pick up his 2011 option. The only question would be where the Yankees would fit in DeJesus.

I would be in full support of a trade for DeJesus, but only for the right price. A battled veteran, a New York native, and a great hitter, he would help this team pick itself up offensively. While there is a question of uncertainty as to where he would play, I'm sure that the Yankees could find a spot for him.

The Yankees, Cliff Lee & Roy Oswalt

What do the Yankees, Cliff Lee & Roy Oswalt all have in common?

I'll give you a hint:
- The richest organization in sports, dedicated to winning.
- 2008 Cy Young award winner, dominated Yankees in the World Series, has a 2.88 ERA in 2010.
- Ace of the Houston Astros, back to back 20 game winner, requesting a trade to a contender.

Give up?

All three have been linked this year in trade rumors.

We'll begin with Roy Oswalt, the Houston Astros ace who this year requested to be traded. Oswalt won 20 games back to back in 2005 and 2005 and led the Astros to the '05 World Series. Often looked at as one of the game's most underrated pitchers, the righty Oswalt has not recieved much publicity due to the poor play of the Houston Astros throughout his career. After recent losing seasons, Oswalt has become fed up with losing and requested a trade this year to a contender. The usual suspects have been thrown out: the Yankees, Red Sox, Mets, Dodgers, Braves, Phillies and Angels. However, the only team with enough money to afford Oswalt is the Evil Empire that is the New York Yankees. Oswalt, 32, is making $15 million this season and has an option of $16 million for 2011 which his club can decline or pick up depending on how he pitches. Perhaps the one deciding issue here besides the money is Oswalt's age. 32 is beyond the prime of a pitcher's career. It is at this time that a pitcher begins to break down and lose speed and effectiveness of his pitches. The other factor: Oswalt has pitched in the weak National League Central his entire career. Why is this a problem? The NL has always been described as the weaker of the two leagues, seeing as pitchers technically only face seven batters, the eighth being the weakest position player and the ninth being the pitcher's spot. Many wonder how a NL pitcher could transfer to the American League, especially in this case, perhaps baseball's strongest division, the AL East. Having the face the Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Rays most of the time could be a challenge.

Is there a chance Oswalt comes to New York by July 31st? Yes, of course, but is it likely? No. I think Oswalt will end up in New York, but with the Mets. First of all, he's 4-8 this year wit ha 3.16 ERA. Oswalt's been quoted as saying he wants to play here but I highly doubt that the Yankees would be willing to take on Oswalt's $15 million this year and next year when they already have a sturdy 5 man rotation. I only see this happening if they trade Javier Vazquez, which is unlikely, seeing how well he has pitched lately (5-2, 2.93). As well, it appears as though the Astros are reluctant to trade Oswalt and would require a "King's ransom" to trade him. Yankee fans know what this means: Jesus Montero. The Astros would most likely ask for a package around the #4 best prospect in baseball to which the Yankees would bluff. I doubt that Yankees would make this trade, especially with our other pitcher in this discussion...

Enter the lefty, Cliff Lee.

Since being traded to the Seattle Mariners this off season in the 3-team trade that sent Roy Halladay to Philadelphia, Lee, 31, has done nothing but dominate. This year the free-agent-to-be is 4-3 with a 2.88 ERA for a terrible Mariners team. After dominating the Yankees for the Phillies in last year's fall classic, you can't think that the Yanks didn't take notice. This week, the Yankees have been reported as connected to the 2008 Cy Young award winning Lee, and it seems as though they would like to trade for him. Like Oswalt, the usual suspects: the Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Dodgers, Braves, Phillies and Angels have been linked. The Mariners, reportedly, have been scouting the Yankees farm system in order to try to build a package that they would want for Lee. The package reportedly would include SS Eduardo Nunez as well as either of the catching prospects Jesus Montero or Austin Romine. In order for this to happen the Yankees would have to be assured that they get at least a 72 hour window to try to sign Lee to an extension before free agency.

But the question has been asked: Why would the Yankees trade top prospects for Lee when he is a free agent come this fall and can be had for money and sacrificing the future? Lee has been quoted as saying that he wants to test free agency, and c'mon, he knows the Yanks would offer him the most cash. So why would the Yankees trade top prospects for him and then lose him as a free agent rather than sign him? It makes no sense whatsoever. Apparently though, the Yankees have been scouting Lee, leading to speculation that a trade could be in the works. I doubt it happens though, I believe the Yanks are going to sign Lee in the fall rather than trade for him. To me, I think that's best for the organization's future and would prevent fans from ripping the Yankees for the move.

Of course, either of Oswalt or Lee could end up with New York's other team: The Mets. They've been interested in both of the elite pitchers, but analysts are skeptical of the amount of money the Mets have (to sign one to an extension), and the quality of the prospects they could trade. The Mets have one of baseball's worst farm systems, even the prospects they used in acquiring Johan Santana weren't great, and they'd become even worse if they traded top prospects Jenry Mejia, Reuben Tejada and Reese Havens for Lee or Oswalt.

So, gun to my head who do I think the Yankees trade for?
Cliff Lee.
It makes more sense than Oswalt. He's cheaper, younger, and he's dominating the AL. A move for Lee would make much more sense for the Yankees. I'd rather not give up Jesus Montero, the #4 prospect in baseball and best position player in the minors since Derek Jeter, but it's not in my hands. I believe that it's much more likely that the Yankees sign Lee as a free agent this off season.

So, gun to my head who do I think the Mets trade for?

Roy Oswalt.

He'd probably cost cheaper prospects than Lee, he's an NL pitcher, and he's already signed for this year and next year if the Mets were to pick up his $16 million option. Though giving up the prospects always hurts, I believe that the Mets could find a way to get Oswalt without giving up Mejia. If they can do that, then Mets nation would be ecstatic with a 1-2 of Santana-Oswalt.

Alas, we'll just have to wait until July when the rumor mill heats up. Who knows, either of these men could be wearing pinstripes or blue and orange come July 31st.

Only time will tell.

Brian Cashman & Jesus Montero on the right:

Cash: Jesus, how do you feel about Seattle?
Jesus: What? No, I want to play for the Jankees.

UPDATE (1:21 PM) Well, here you have it! Roy Oswalt would accept a trade to the Mets.

Fan Poll decision: Roy Oswalt will end up with Yankees

How you all voted:
Yankees - 4
Nationals - 3
Mets - 2
Cardinals - 1
Braves - 0
Rangers - 0
Twins - 0

This was a close vote!

While most Yankee fans would love to see Oswalt in pinstripes, it really doesn't look like it's going to happen. The Yankees are happy with their current rotation and appear ready to sign Cliff Lee as a free agent and use money instead of dealing prospects such as Jesus Montero for Oswalt. It's been reported recently that the Astros are not ready to deal Oswalt. Teams such as the Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and Detroit Tigers have been named as some favorites to land the ace pitcher.

As much as I want Oswalt, I don't think the Yanks need him. Pettitte, Hughes, Sabathia and Burnett have been great so far, and I don't see a way to fit Oswalt in. As well, NL pitchers usually have difficulty transferring to the AL, so I think it's best to be cautious of how Oswalt would perform. Lastly, I'd prefer not giving up Jesus Montero for an old pitcher, case and point.

If you voted for the Nationals, I'd like to know why! Please leave a comment or drop me a message!

We'll just have to wait until July 31st.