We're just over a month away from pitchers and catchers reporting, and there are still several impact players available in the MLB free agency and trade markets. We're here to take a look at the latest from the MLB Hot Stove madness with the 3 MLB Rumors You Need To Know For January 18th.
Astros And Cespedes?
Yoenis Cespedes is reportedly close to landing a new deal, but it's unclear just which team will sign him. The Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angles, Detroit Tigers and New York Mets have all been linked to the outfielder. But Peter Gammons has another possible team.
Thrice today I had execs say "watch the Astros on Cespedes." 5th best HR park in MLB in '15. Good lineup. OK, I'm watching
— Peter Gammons (@pgammo) January 17, 2016
The Astros are a curious fit, because they'd likely have to move Carlos Gomez to make space for Cespedes.
Or Perhaps The Yankees?
Ken Rosenthal has another suggestion for Cespedes. He believes that the New York Yankees would be a solid fit for the slugger. It would require the team to deal OF Brett Gardner, something the team has been open to in the past. Adding Cespedes would be tricky since the Yankees have been reluctant to increase payroll lately, but the signing would add star power and talent to the club. Rosenthal says it would be a move George Steinbrenner would pull.
Teams Trying To Deal For Jonathan Lucroy?
The Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics and Washington Nationals all discussed potential trades for Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy. Rosenthal reports the teams backed off because Lucroy's price was too high. However, Lucroy is still a candidate to be dealt, as is the Padres' Derek Norris.