The Yankees are looking to acquire another starting pitcher, but rather than a No. 5 or a spot starter, the team is pursuing a legitimate starter.
USA Today's Bob Nightengale tweeted over the weekend that the Yankees are closely eyeing Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano. Additionally, Nightengale said that the Twins have been keeping close tabs on Yankees prospects.
On Monday, Nightengale furthered speculation when he went on Jim Bowden's radio show on XM and said that a deal could get done within two weeks, and it also may involve Yankees pitchers Joba Chamberlain and Ivan Nova.
Bowden tweeted on Monday afternoon that Nightengale said a trade was "possible."
In 2010, the 27-year-old Liriano threw 191 2/3 innings and had a 14-10 record, 3.62 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 201 strikeouts with the Minnesota Twins.
If Chamberlain and Nova are involved in the deal, that could mean that the Yankees wouldn't have to part ways with catching prospect Jesus Montero.
Involving Montero also seems unnecessary when you factor in that the Twins are set at both the catching position with Joe Mauer, and also at first base where they're expecting Justin Morneau to eventually return from a concussion.
The Yankees need Liriano, who would be a great fit and help a starting rotation that could use another lefty and arm in the rotation, as well as battle a Red Sox line up consisting of five possible left-handed hitters.
