Rumors & Notes: Jimmy Rollins To The Yankees?

Mar 5, 2014; Clearwater, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins (11) bats in the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Brighthouse Networks Field. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly looking to trade longtime shortstop Jimmy Rollins. I know when I first heard this news, the first thing that came to mind for me was should/would the Yankees be interested?’ I say why not? It’s obvious Rollins desperately needs a change of scenery, and the Yankees desperately need some infield help. While it’s very unlikely that Rollins would play shortstop with Derek Jeter there, he could serve as insurance, should Brendan Ryan‘s injury continue to be troublesome. And with the unreliable duo of Brian Roberts and Kelly Johnson at second and third, there’s also the possibility he could play or be part of a platoon at one, if not both of the positions. Or how about a backup to Mark Teixeira at first?

There are so many different possibilities and situations he could be used in. While some may argue at 35-years-old, he’s nowhere near the Jimmy Rollins he used to be, but a move to New York could be exactly what he needs to rejuvenate his career, much like Ichiro when he was traded to the Yankees. Andy Martino of the New York Daily News spoke with team sources within the Yankees regarding  potential interest in Rollins. He was told that the Yankees think it would be too awkward to bring in a name that big in Derek Jeter’s final season. So whether or not this actually happens remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt that it would be an extremely beneficial move for the Yankees, and while it is a risk, it is one they should be willing to take.

Rollins on the other hand, has made it know that unless the Phillies and their elderly lineup go completely over the cliff this season, and find themselves in last place at the trading deadline, he has no intention of waiving his 10-and-5 rights as a player. The 2007 National League MVP says unless things are moving in a different direction for the franchise by summertime, he plans on wearing the red pinstripes of the Phillies. Rollins wants to become the Phillies’ all-time hits leader, and is less than 70 hits away from doing that. Even though reports have surfaced of a battle between Rollins and new manager Ryne Sandberg, it would take Philadelphia eating most of Rollins’ remaining salary to move him at this point in his career.