Yankees, Royals are vying hard for Infante's services.
The New York Yankees have made free agent second baseman Omar Infante a three-year offer, according to Jon Heyman.
While donning Pinstripes (and the winning, big-market exposure, and everything that goes with playing in New York) might be tempting, Infante is reportedly seeking a four-year deal in the $40M range.
Joel Sherman is reporting the Yankees are only willing to go up to $24M over three years:
Heard Infante valuing himself like his pal Prado (4-$40M). #Yankees holding limit about 3-$24M. #Royals are involved.
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 12, 2013New York has had reported interest in both Infante and Brandon Phillips as Robinson Cano alternatives as far back as early November. Now that Cano is in Seattle, the urgency to replace his production before the last available options are gone should certainly weigh on Yankees front office -- but just last night the club rejected a trade for Brandon Phillips.
Heyman also reports that the Kansas City Royals, previously reported as interested in Infante, are still in on a potential deal. After non-tendering Chris Getz last week, Kansas City has no starting second baseman, so adding Infante would appear to be a priority.
The Royals look like they're making an effort, at least:
#Royals continue to do extensive background work on Infante.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 12, 2013Infante, who will turn 32-years old later this month, hit .318 with a .345 OBP, 10 home runs, 24 doubles, 51 RBI, 5 stolen bases and a .795 OPS in 2013 with the Detroit Tigers.
