MLB Trade Rumors: Yankees close to deal for Alfonso Soriano

From the New York Post:

"In dire need of a bat with thump and an indication the Yankees may believe that Alex Rodriguez isn’t going to play this season, the toothless Bombers are close to acquiring Alfonso Soriano from the Cubs, The Post has learned.According to a person familiar with the talks, the Cubs will pay the bulk of what is left on Soriano’s contract. He makes $18 million this year and the same for next season.In return the Cubs will get a mid-level prospect."

When asked about the rumors, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman had a short answer: “I wouldn’t comment on that.’’

Alfonso Soriano has a no trade clues but the Post says he would not block a deal that would bring him back to the Bronx. Soriano is 37 years old and scheduled to make $18 million this season and next.

That’s a lot of money for a team trying to bring their payroll down, but they need someone to replace Rodriguez in the line up. Their batting has put a lot of pressure on their arms according to short stop Derek Jeter.

“It’s tough. We put way too much pressure on our pitchers,’’ Jeter said following last night’s 3-0 loss to the Rangers in which the Yankees collected three singles against Yu Darvish and three relievers in the Yankees fifth loss in six games. “You can’t sugar coat it, we have to find ways to score runs.’’

From the Post:

"Soriano is batting .259 with 17 homers and 51 RBIs for the Cubs. Those 17 homers would be second to Robinson Cano’s 21 among Yankees, who have combined for 88 home runs.The downside to Soriano…is that he strikes out often and is a below-average defender. He also doesn’t steal bases like he used to. After swiping 41 in 2002 and 41 in 2006, he hasn’t reached 20 since 2006."

The Cubs also traded pitcher Matt Garza to the Texas Rangers yesterday.