The Yankees have been looking to sign a strong left-handed pitcher in free agency for the first time since CC Sabathia, and this offseason they are planning to make a strong push for one in their own division. According to Mark Feinsand of the Daily News, the Yankees are expected to be one of the many teams in the mix to sign Wei-Yin Chen.
The 30-year-old Chen has a career record of 46-32 since making his major league debut, including a 3.72 ERA. Last season, he posted a 3.34 ERA with an 11-8 record with the Orioles. Chen has been rumored to be looking for a five year deal this offseason, and at age 30, signing Chen until his age 35 season may be attractive for teams in need of a lefty in the rotation.
Chen has had success in the AL East during his four year career in the major leagues, and the Yankees like the idea of having a lefty who as pitched well against teams in their own division.
The one knock for the Yankees if they were to sign Chen, is the Orioles have made him a qualifying offer for next year. This would force the Yankees to give up their first-round pick, which stands at 22nd overall.
The Yankees have not been afraid in the past to spend the big bucks on free-agents, but in recent years, the Bronx Bombers have held on to their picks and money and stocked up the farm system. GM Brian Cashman may open the pocket book again if he is able to sign the southpaw.
