Report: Yankees, Mets Interested In Shortstop Drew
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- They both need a shortstop in what is a thin market.
According to various reports, the Yankees and Mets have their eyes on veteran Stephen Drew, who is coming off arguably the worst season of his career.
Drew, who has played for four teams during his nine-year career, was acquired by the Yankees at the trade deadline last season after playing 39 games with the Red Sox. He initially misplayed the free agent market, sitting out unsigned until he inked a one-year, $10 million pro-rated deal with Boston on May 20.
With the Red Sox and Yankees, Drew hits a career-low .162 with seven home runs and 26 RBI in 85 games. For his career, the 31-year-old infielder is a .256 hitter with 97 homers and 442 RBI.
Drew, who won a World Series ring with the Red Sox in 2013, is considered one of the better defensive shortstops in the game.
The Yankees have a glaring need at the position now that Derek Jeter has retired, and were initially linked early in the offseason to the Chicago White Sox's Alexei Ramirez and Texas' Elvis Andrus. The Mets seem to want to acquire a shortstop, but don't appear inclined to go get a big name. They were reportedly interested in Colorado's Troy Tulowitzki, but talks didn't go very far. General manager Sandy Alderson said recently he has not ruled out the idea of the Mets going with youngster Wilmer Flores at the position.
As far as the offseason plans for both teams go, the Yankees were believed to be interested in middle-of-the-rotation starters to team with aces Masahiro Tanaka and Michael Pineda next season. However, over the last week there has been speculation that they may be considering entering the race for former Cy Young winner Max Scherzer.
The Bombers are also trying to find more insurance at third base, where they are reportedly not confident recently reinstated-but-aging Alex Rodriguez will be able to produce as he has in the past.
Loaded with pitching heading into a season in which they could challenge for a playoff spot, the Mets have already bolstered their outfield by signing veteran Michael Cuddyer to a two-year deal. Solidifying their middle infield defense will likely remain their next order of business, well into the New Year, if necessary.
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