New York Yankees Trade Rumors: Eyeing Ace Closer Craig Kimbrel, Astros still in the Mix
With the trade deadline quickly approaching, a lot of players are expected to be moved today. One of these players includes ace closer, Craig Kimbrel, who is reportedly being eyed by the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros.
The San Diego Padres, who traded for Kimbrel at the start of the season, have been talking to the Yankees and Astros about potential deals, league sources revealed to ESPN.com. The sources stated that the deal will be dependent on the prospects that the teams can offer as well as how much of Kimbrel's $24 million contract they can absorb.
The Yankees are willing to take on Kimbrel's entire contract. However, they are reportedly still a bit hesitant about trading any one of their top prospects, who include pitcher Luis Severino, outfielder Aaron Judge or first baseman Greg Bird.
Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com tweeted:
Sources: #Yankees in mix for #Padres’ Kimbrel, as ESPN said. #Astros also pursuing him. NYY would take all money, give up “good prospect.”
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 31, 2015
The Astros on the other hand are negotiating a larger deal that would include Kimbrel and another one of the Padres' pitchers. The two pitchers in the mix are starters Tysoon Ross and Andrew Cashner.
Jayson Stark tweeted that the Astros might not be willing to take on Kimbrel's contract.
Amazing all the people who still think Craig Kimbrel winds up going to the #Yankees. #Astros also interested but wouldn't want all the $ — Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) July 30, 2015
Stark also tweeted that the Yankees might get tired of waiting for Kimbrel and are already talking with the Miami Marlins about Carter Capps
#Yankees may be getting tired of waiting around for #Padres on Kimbrel. Hear they're also talking to #Marlins about Carter Capps — Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) July 31, 2015
The Yankees and the Astros are currently first in their respective divisions. They could both use an ace, especially if they head into the playoffs.
The trade deadline is today, July 31 at 4 p.m. ET.
