How Far Apart Are The New York Yankees And Robinson Cano?

The New York Yankees have been one of the busiest teams so far in the offseason. They signed Brian McCann for a five year deal to be the new starting catcher. They are the favorites to bring in former New York Met Carlos Beltran to sure up the outfield. However, what has become of the player we all thought was priority #1 for the Bronx Bombers this offseason?

Nov 14, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Free agent second baseman

on the sidelines during the fourth quarter of a game between the New York Knicks and the Houston Rockets at Madison Square Garden. The Rockets beat the Knicks 109-106. (Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)

According to Ken Davidoff the New York Post (via a source), the Yankees and second baseman Robinson Cano are currently $100 million apart in contract negotiations. Cano is reportedly searching for a nine year deal worth between $250 and $260 million. Meanwhile, the Yankees have gone so far to counter with a seven year deal worth between $160 and $175 million. In the words of Davidoff: 

"“When it comes to asking prices and counteroffers, Robinson Cano still is shopping in Alex Rodriguez’s neighborhood.”"

The two sides are scheduled to talk on Monday, but the talks have not progressed in the Yankees’ favor to this point. The question is how long are the Yankees willing to wait on their second baseman before deciding to move on without him? The team has expressed interest in signing Omar Infante via free agency or trading for Reds’ second baseman Brandon Phillips.

If Carlos Beltran signs along with McCann and the Yankees bring back Hiroki Kuroda to the rotation, there will not be much money left for Cano should the Yankees want to remain under $189 million in total payroll for this season. So far, there appears to be no mystery team seeking Cano’s services. At this point, Cano to the Yankees seems anything but a sure thing and probably won’t be resolved until the Winter Meetings at the earliest.