Report: Yankees On 'Brink' Of Trading A.J. Burnett To Pirates
NEW YORK (WFAN) -- Yankees fans may soon be saying goodbye to A.J. Burnett.
According to the New York Post, the Bombers are "on the brink" of trading Burnett to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Yankees have reportedly been in talks to ship the erratic right-hander to Pittsburgh. The Post reported Monday that the sides have an "outline of a deal in place," though according to the New York Daily News, the teams are "still a good ways away" from an agreement.
Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com said Friday that New York initially asked Pittsburgh to absorb nearly half of the $33 million remaining on Burnett's contract. The Pirates reportedly countered with two so-so prospects and $10 million in cash.
The Yankees want "at least a reasonably decent prospect," Heyman reported Sunday, but the Pirates are "more likely" to compromise on cash compensation than prospects.
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."
Burnett went 11-11 with a 5.15 ERA in 2011. He also led the major leagues in wild pitches.
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, Murti reported last week.
Will a Burnett trade get done Monday? Make your prediction in the comments below...
