Based on all of the conflicting reports regarding Jon Lester, can we really count anything out, including the New York Yankees? At the MLB Winter Meetings, the Atlanta Braves are discussing a trade for one of their power hitters with the Texas Rangers.
Earlier today FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal reported Lester has narrowed his choices down to the San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs. Shortly thereafter, Lester's agent made it known that was completely false, but at this point it's hard to believe that since it was also said Lester's representation was looking for a $150 million contract.
Now, ESPN's Jerry Crasnick was told, "Don't count out the Yankees with Lester," from a front office person and a scout. For a while it's been said the Yankees could swoop in at the last moment and snag Lester because their starting rotation is largely in question for next season. They've also been linked to starter Max Scherzer and need to keep up with the competitive AL East. New York just spent $36 million on Andrew Miller and traded for shortstop Didi Gregorius, so maybe they're not done just yet.
As for speculation that has some legs, the Texas Rangers are said to be interested in catcher/outfielder Evan Gattis of the Atlanta Braves, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. The Rangers previously contacted Atlanta about outfielder Justin Upton, but it appears (for the meantime) they've shifted their attention to Gattis, who would make more sense financially.
Upton is owed $14.5 million in 2015 and becomes a free agent after the season, while Gattis is pre-arbitration eligible and is under club control through the 2018 season. The 28-year-old Gattis has 43 home runs and 117 RBIs in 213 career games and saw increases in his batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage and OPS over the past year.
The Rangers had an uncharacteristically dreadful season in 2014 and are looking to rebound as they search for starting pitching and run producing outfielders. Although Upton would be a great addition, the Braves reportedly want a lot in return for him and it's not a safe gamble because he has the opportunity to become a free agent for the first time in his career after the 2015 season.
Grant notes that Gattis would not only be a safer bet, but he would also give the Rangers some financial flexibility to add another mid-range free agent starter. Texas will need to make sure they're ready to compete in the AL West next season.
