Cano Talks Yankees, Jay-Z In Recent Interview

Mar 23, 2014; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) reacts after grounding out against the Oakland Athletics in the third inning at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

While all the hurt feelings and emotions may still not have subsided, Seattle Mariners’ second baseman Robinson Cano recently gave an interview to GO Magazine, and discussed his original organization, along with his decision to switch agents. After nine seasons in pinstripes, Cano took the money and ran to the Pacific Northwest and will be the face of a franchise that hasn’t mattered in over a decade. Now, like it or not, Cano is tied to the Mariners for 10 years and $240 million dollars.

When asked about his fondest memories about his time in the Bronx, Cano commented:

"The three high points as a Yankee for me: when Jeter got 3,000 hits, Andy’s last game, and Mariano’s final ceremony…Those are the things that stick in your mind, in your heart."

Cano also stated that playing for the Yankees was like “Playing in your backyard…a place you never want to leave that place, those guys.” What? Is this the same player that shortly after signing his new contract, complained that he never felt fully appreciated, and that where he hit in Joe Girardi‘s lineup rubbed him the wrong way? Perhaps Cano now realizes the error of his ways.

Most people believe that money has bought the Yankees multiple championships, but when a franchise such as the Mariners has to overpay to lure an elite talent to their franchise, there isn’t much left to build a team around him. Cano looks around Mariners’ spring camp and instead of seeing protection in the lineup, he sees Cory Hart, Logan Morrison and Justin Smoak–a big downgrade from what he’s become accustomed to over the past decade.  Cano returns to the Bronx as an opposing player for the first time on April 29th.

Prior to being represented by Jay-Z, Cano was a part of the Scott Boras baseball machine that maximized dollars and opportunities for the super agent. Cano said of making the change: “So many agents open with, ‘I represent Miguel Cabrera’ or ‘I represent that guy’…I just wanted someone who would be there after the deal, who’d treat me less like a job and more like family.” Cano feels like family with Jay-Z and Roc Nation, and hopes to connect with the people of Seattle just as much as he did with the fans of New York City.