UPDATE: November 9, 2016 7:00 PM EST: The New York Daily News is reporting that the Yankees have identified a potential trade partner for catcher Brian McCann.
According to sources close to Mark Feinsand, general manager Brian Cashman has already been able to identify a potential trade match for McCann. It’s been no secret that the Yankees are open to trading the 32-year-old, and now it appears more likely that a deal could possibly get done.
McCann has a full no-trade clause, so he will have the ability to veto any trade. It is unknown at this time which team is the potential trade partner.
The Bronx Pinstripes team will continue to update once more information comes along.
ORIGINAL POST: The Yankees have received trade interest from numerous teams in regards to catcher Brian McCann, according to Ken Davidoff and Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
The #Yankees are making multiple preparations for a possible trade of Brian McCann. #Royals #Braves #Astros https://t.co/iu5iBSakAO
— Ken Davidoff (@KenDavidoff) November 9, 2016
With Gary Sanchez set to take over the starting catcher position in 2017, the Yankees have a surplus of catchers on their roster. The plan now is for McCann to be the team’s primary designated hitter, but that could change if the right trade offer presents itself.
General manager Brian Cashman stated that the team has already received interest in the 32-year-old backstop. Possible teams who could be interested in McCann’s services include the Astros, Braves, Orioles and Nationals.
McCann is still a very productive player, and could be a valuable asset for multiple teams looking for a competent catcher. The 32-year-old has hit at least 20 home runs in each of the past nine seasons, and his power could be a huge addition to a lineup that is looking for some power and veteran leadership.
Although McCann has stated that he is happy in New York, a trade might be in the best interest for the veteran catcher. He is set to make $17 million over each of the next two seasons, but has a $15 million dollar vesting option for the 2019 season.
In order for that option to vest, McCann would have to meet some requirements. The veteran would have to catch 90 games during the 2018 season, total 1,000 plate appearances in both 2017 and 2018, and also not end up on the disabled list to end the 2018 campaign.
With the emergence of Sanchez, those numbers will be very difficult to attain in New York. McCann will have the final say on any trade, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if he ultimately approves a trade to a team where he’d see more playing time behind the plate.
In case a trade for McCann does come to fruition, the Yankees would find themselves with a void at the designated hitter position, Cashman has been exploring the market for possible designated hitter options, including Kendrys Morales and former Yankee Carlos Beltran.
Along with Morales and Beltran, the Yankees could also have interest in sluggers Edwin Encarnacion and Mark Trumbo. Encarnacion might be a long shot due to his high asking price ($25 million per year), but Trumbo could come into play if the Yankees look to add some right-handed power.
Cashman has been busy, as he has reached out to numerous free agents thus far. The Yankees general manager has been also monitoring the starting pitching market, and says the team will reach out to veteran free agent Rich Hill.
The 37-year-old has rejuvenated his career over the past two seasons, and is expected to get a nice payday this offseason. Reports say that Hill could receive a three-year deal worth up to $50 million, which is very good for a guy who was pitching in independent baseball just two years ago.
A lot of rumors are flying around as the Yankees continue to kick the tire on every possible option on the market this offseason. Cashman is committed to making the Yankees organization better, and seems to be open to just about any possibly that might present itself this winter.
