YANKEES 101

While a sentiment for reduced payroll had been expressed for most, if not all, of this past offseason, Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner appears to be willing to "break the bank" for looming free agent second baseman Robinson Cano. Moreover, an organizational edict to not discuss extensions before the current deal is up, an edict used even amongst the likes of captain Derek Jeter, could potentially go out the window as well. 

Per George A. King III of The New York Post, Steinbrenner has already expressed an interest with Cano's agent, Scott Boras, of ensuring that the Yankees have the first opportunity to avoid letting Cano hit the free agency market at the end of this season,

“We expressed to Scott what a great Yankee he has been and we hope he continues his career here for a long time to come. We indicated to him on a very preliminary basis that we were willing to consider a significant long-term contract.”

While there is no confirmed indication yet of how Steinbrenner's emphasis for retaining Cano will affect the slugger's process, Boras confirmed that the organization's desire will not be discounted and will keep any offer in mind, even if it means avoiding free agency.

Needless to say, while it all sounds good in theory, the penchant of a Boras client is to give up no leverage and play out existing contracts to help expedite getting the maximum dollars come free agency.

Moreover, as quite arguably the most dynamic second baseman in all of Major League Baseball, Cano will be the most highly sought-after free agent next offseason and should easily ascertain the 10-year, $200 million deal he's widely projected to get.

As for 2013, the four-time Silver Slugger Award winner is focusing on the season in front of him, avoiding any free agency talk.

 

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Tags: Baseball, Hal Steinbrenner, MLB, New York, New York Yankees, Robinson Cano, Scott Boras

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