The New York Yankees have two pitchers on their radars to bolster their weak rotation.
Both Texas ace C.J. Wilson and Phillies vet Roy Oswalt have a mutual interest with the Yankees, reported ESPN. Wilson was pretty obvious, with him being the top free agent starting pitcher on the market and New York in dire need to bolster a weak rotation that still features C.C. Sabbathia and young arm Ivan Nova.
The Phillies declined Oswalt’s option of $16 million due to him in 2012. Oswalt expressed he is looking for a long-term deal, something the Yanks would be willing to commit.
Oswalt is also still in the search for his first World Series ring. He waived a no-trade clause to come to Philadelphia in hopes for a ring. After two disappointing ends of the season for the Phils and Oswalt, the two parties severed ties and Oswalt’s search continues.
That’s most likely what makes New York a top destination for the 34-year-old, who pitched his entire career in the National League.
If the Phils don’t pursue Oswalt, the candidacy for the fifth starter will be wide open with Vance Worley becoming the number four. Joe Blanton, Kyle Kendrick or a free agent move would be the candidates heading into Spring Training.
TTB 