John Danks Trade Rumors: Yankees Lose Another Potential Pitching Option

Dec 22 9:31a by Jared Smith

Back in the day it seemed that during the holiday season, New York Yankee ownership would get a nice, new gift for their fans by either trading or signing a quality player, but their currentshopping list is getting a shorter, as on Wednesday left-handed starter John Danks inked a five-year, $65-million with the Chicago White Sox.

According to the New York Daily News:

"The Yankees had shown interest in the 26-year-old Danks, but the White Sox were asking for a package of prospects that included both Jesus Montero and Manny Banuelos, a price Brian Cashman was not prepared to pay."

With Danks off the list, it looks like the only real options for the Yankees are Oakland's Gio Gonzalez and the Mets' Jonathon Niese. However, the NYDN says the asking price for those pitchers is hefty.

Now, its seems like the front-end of New York's starting rotation, which features CC Sabathia and up-and-comer Ivan Nova is pretty solid. But, pinstripe nation would like somebody to solidify the back end of the five-man rotation that features A.J. Burnett, Freddie Garcia and Phil Hughes, who are all question marks entering the 2012 season.