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MLB Rumors: Yankees, Astros favorites in the Craig Kimbrel sweepstakes

By Jonathan Bass

Jul 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) delivers a pitch to the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning of a baseball game at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Padres won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) delivers a pitch to the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning of a baseball game at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Padres won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Yankees and Houston Astros are in the market for one of the game’s best arms.

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A pair of American League division leaders appear to be battling it out for one of the games best young arms. Both the New York Yankees and Houston Astros are reportedly the clubhouse leaders to land Padres closer Craig Kimbrel.

The Yankees have long been considered the favorite to acquire the flame-throwing righty, should San Diego choose to deal him. However, as Jon Heyman reports, Houston could sneak in the backdoor to lock up the backside of its bullpen.

"Some believe the Astros may be making a stealth try for Kimbrel after landing two starters and an outfielder already, and several Astros-connected people suggested interest in such an endeavor, but their involvement is uncertain at this time."

Should he be moved, it would mark the third team in less than two seasons for arguably the game’s best closer. The Atlanta Braves stunningly traded Kimbrel (packaged alongside

BJ

Melvin Upton Jr.) on the night before Opening Day in a move that was equal parts Atlanta roster overhaul and San Diego stockpile. Now with the Padres languishing in what was expected to be a championship season, they could sell off the high-priced arm ($28 million and two years remaining on his contract) to a contender.

Kimbrel owns a career 1.59 ERA and .93 WHIP, along with 216 saves. This season, in a new locale, his numbers have dipped a bit to a 2.68 ERA and 1.09 WHIP – though he does have 30 saves to only one blown save.

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