Via Jon Heyman: The Yankees have called the Reds and inquired about Brandon Phillips, who is supposedly on the trade block. The team also contacted free agent Omar Infante recently as they try to line up second base options should Robinson Cano sign elsewhere. Heyman says the price tag on Phillips is “way too steep.”
Phillips, 32, hit .261/.310/.396 (91 wRC+) with 18 homers and five stolen bases in 666 plate appearances this summer. His defense at second is very good and there is still $50M and four years left on his contract. As I wrote in a mailbag late last month, I would look for a short-term solution (like Infante!) before taking the plunge and making a trade for Phillips. He’s a solid player but there are clear signs of decline, most notably his disappearing power and speed.
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