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Heyman: Yankees, Pirates Trade Talks Progressing

NEW YORK (WFAN) -- Yankees fans may soon get their wish: A.J. Burnett anywhere but the Bronx.

Talks between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Yankees are progressing and both teams have "continued optimism," Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reports.

The teams are "thought to be a few million apart," Heyman reported, though there's still "hope" the deal could through.

He added that the Yankees initially asked Pittsburgh to absorb nearly half of the $33 million remaining on Burnett's contract, Pittsburgh countered and offered to absorb $10 million of Burnett's remaining contract.

Heyman also reported that the Yankees are looking for a decent return in potential prospects, but according to his source the Pirates are willing to pay more money than give up a potential prospect.

LISTEN: Heyman talks possible A.J. trade on WFAN

According to WFAN's Sweeny Murti, the Bucs believe Burnett could thrive in a low-pressure market. The Pirates are not one of the 10 teams listed in Burnett's no-trade clause, reported Murti.

New York general manager Brian Cashman let it slip in November that Burnett would be in the rotation "if he's with us." The comment made headlines and Cashman backtracked a bit, later telling the New York Daily News, "I won't be shopping anybody."

The Yankees could use the infusion of cash to secure a DH -- Raul Ibanez or Johnny Damon, perhaps -- and reserve infielder Eric Chavez, said Heyman.

The New York Post, meanwhile, reported on Friday that the Yankees are having "conversations with several clubs" about Burnett.

While not a model of consistency on the mound, the right-hander has proven to be a horse. Since signing with the Yankees prior to the 2009 season, Burnett has started in 33 ('09), 33 (2010) and 32 games (2011).

He pitched 207 innings his first year, 186.2 the next and 190.1 this past season.

Burnett went 11-11 with a 5.15 ERA in 2011.

Yankees fans, would you pull the trigger on Burnett for cash? Sound off in the comments below...
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