Carl Crawford is being most heavily pursued by the Red Sox and Angels, while the Yankees have their sights set on lefty ace Cliff Lee. However, don’t let that trick you into believing that the Yankees don’t have eyes for the outfielder, too, and Buster Olney has confirmed that the Yankees and Crawford have indeed been in contact.
Carl Crawford Involved In Free Agency Talks With Yankees
What’s unknown is the degree of New York’s interest. It’s possible that they could have room for both Crawford and Lee - the two jewels of the offseason - but the more likely situation is that they see Crawford as a backup in case Lee returns to the Rangers. In that event, the Yankees wouldn’t want Crawford to sign with anyone until Lee’s off the market.
The Yankees outfield is currently full, with Brett Gardner, Curtis Granderson, and Nick Swisher, and were Crawford to sign, one of them would have to be shipped away.
While Lee is probably the best player available among free agents, it’s the 29-year-old Crawford who should end up receiving the biggest contract.
See More:
