Carlos Ruiz‘s new deal to stay in Philadelphia means that there’s one less potential catching target for the Yankees. It might not matter, though, as New York is believed to have its sights set on the market’s biggest fish.
According to The Star-Ledger, the Yankees showed little interest in Ruiz before he re-signed with the Phillies. Instead, New York reportedly is considered an “active pursuer” of Brian McCann, who is the top free-agent catcher available this winter.
The Yankees reportedly met with McCann’s agent, B.B. Abbott, at the GM meetings last week in Orlando, Fla. The 29-year-old backstop is believed to be seeking a deal somewhere in the $80 million-$100 million range, which certainly entails some risk, but McCann would undoubtedly boost New York’s offense.
McCann hit .256 with 20 home runs and 57 RBIs in 102 games in 2013, marking his sixth straight season of 20 or more homers. McCann has seven All-Star selections and five Silver Slugger awards on his resume, and he’s also considered one of the game’s grittiest players.
McCann has spent his entire nine-year career in Atlanta to this point, although there’s a widespread belief that he’d really thrive in a big market like New York. The Red Sox, Rangers and Angels are reportedly interested in McCann as well.
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Photo via Flickr/Keith Allison
