Rumors Are Swirling
By Joe Davis
When the Yankees didn't get Carlos Beltran or Freddy Garcia, you know George Steinbrenner wasn't happy. When Steinbrenner isn't happy, Brian Cash needs to make him happy.
So who will the Evil Empire go out and get? ESPN Insider Reports the new rumors as follows:
Who? Russ Ortiz
Why? He has a 3.67 ERA which is what the Yankees want. Lack of run support has cost him because he only has a 7-6 record. In New York, there is no lack of run support.
Details: "Jun. 28 - The Yankees reportedly were scouting Ortiz on Saturday (June 26th), and he pitched well. With Freddy Garcia dealt to Chicago and the Braves seemingly in cost-cutting mode, Ortiz could be a New York target.
As for Ortiz's availablity? At this point, closer John Smoltz told the paper, nothing is surprising.
"There's not a guy on this team whose name could come up in trade rumors that would surprise me," Smoltz said.
Who? Jamie Moyer
Why? Like Russ Ortiz, lack of run support has hurt Moyer. He is 6-4 with a 3.80 ERA.
Details: "Jun. 28 - If dealing Freddy Garcia is a signal the Mariners are waving the white flag on the season, expect Moyer's name to come up in trade talks, too. The veteran left-hander makes $7 million this season and will make $2 million next season, but can veto any trade as a 10-and-5 man. His name reportedly came up when the Yankees and Mariners were discussing Garcia, but it's unclear whether he would waive his veto rights for a trade to New York."
Who? Preston Wilson
Why? Yankees wanted Beltran, Wilson is a very similar player. However, he doesn't hit for average. He has decent speed, and can hit 30+ homeruns and last year he drove in a career high 141 RBI's. However, can he hit this outside Coors field? Why not? He's been on the DL for most of this year.
Details: Jun. 28 - Having missed out on Carlos Beltran, the Yankees reportedly have inquired about Wilson's availability. The right-handed hitting outfielder will make $12.5 million next season, the final year of his deal. He has spent much of this season on the disabled list after undergoing knee surgery April 19.
ESPN Insider
