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In the wake of the stunning, and sad, Miami Marlins' fire sale of players to the Toronto Blue Jays, it figured that the New York Yankees would be among teams sniffing around the Marlins for anything left on the roster resembling real major-league talent.
The name that immediately came to mind was outfielder Giancarlo Stanton, a 23-year-old slugging outfielder who would slot nicely into the spot being vacated by free agent Nick Swisher. A different Marlins' player, though, is now being linked to the Yankees.
The Yankees are reportedly interested in Marlins' starting pitcher Ricky Nolasco, a seven-year veteran who will be 30 next season. Nolasco has one-year at $11.5 million left on his contract.
Nolasco does not seem like an upgrade over Phil Hughes, Ivan Nova or anything the Yankees have. He has a career 76-64 record and 4.49 ERA, all with the Marlins.
Why would the Yankees be interested? SB Nation's MLB Daily Dish explains:
Nolasco could provide the Yankees a slightly cheaper and younger alternative to fellow right-hander Hiroki Kurdoa, who rejected New York's qualifying offer and seems to be looking for a two-deal.
Kuroda was outstanding for the Yankees in 2012, going 16-11 with a 3.32 ERA and pitching a career-high 219.2 innings. He will be 28 next season, however, and several teams have expressed interest. If the Yankees can't get Kuroda to return to the Bronx on a one-year deal they might be looking for an alternative, and Nolasco could be attractive -- especially with only one year on his contract.
Boland: Yankeees interested in Ricky Nolasco | River Avenue Blues