It sounds like the New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Pirates are in a good old-fashioned staring contest when it comes to the potential trade of A.J. Burnett from the Yankees to the Pirates.
Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports that the Yankees want a resolution by Saturday — the day before pitchers and catchers report to Tampa for the Yankees Spring Training.
Various reports had indicated that there were other teams interested in Burnett, but that as of now the only realistic trade partner for the Yankees is Pittsburgh.
The impasse reportedly is about money. The Pirates are reportedly willing to assume $10 million of the $33 million Burnett is owed for the next two seasons. The Yankees would like $13-$15 million, or better prospects.
Could the Pirates stare the Yankees down here? New York does have seven starters and most likely doesn’t want Burnett around. So, that is a distinct possibility.