The Mariners aren’t messing around.
Not only are the Mariners “major players” in the Robinson Cano sweepstakes, but they’re also willing to shell out a boatload of cash to land the five-time All-Star. According to ESPNDeportes.com, the Mariners informed Cano that they are willing to give him a 10-year deal worth between $230-240 million.
Cano reportedly flew to Seattle to meet with the club Thursday, at which point the M’s extended the proposal. It’s the largest offer for Cano that’s been reported to this point, and perhaps it’ll be enough to entice the second baseman, who is believed to have previously asked for a 10-year, $310 million deal or a nine-year, $252 million deal. The Yankees, according to reports, have been reluctant to enter into the $200 million range, which has stalled talks between the two sides.
The Yankees have signed Jacoby Ellsbury (seven years, $153 million) and Brian McCann (five years, $85 million) already this offseason, creating some doubt as to whether they’ll be able to fit Cano’s potentially hefty contract into their plans. With the Mariners apparently willing to offer the moon in order to make a splash, the chances of Cano returning to New York, where he has spent the first nine years of his career, might be dwindling.
Cano, who is considered the best free agent available this offseason, hit .314 with 27 home runs and 107 RBIs in 2013. The 31-year-old has finished in the top six in American League MVP voting in each of the last four seasons.
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