Potential Bargains for the Yankees on the Upcoming Free Agent Market

Andrew Cashner

After three straight seasons as a solid mid-rotation option, Cashner completely feel apart at the worst possible time for his earning power. He’s pitched to a 5.00 ERA and 4.76 FIP in 111.2 IP thus far. I’d say he needs a change of scenery, but the move from San Diego to Miami at the trade deadline hasn’t helped matters.

Still, at 29 and not far removed from consistent two-WAR seasons, he’s worth a flier on a one year deal. Of course, few pitchers would choose to rebuild value in Yankee Stadium and the AL East if they can help it, so New York might have to be aggressive if they see something they can fix in Cashner.

If Cashner isn’t looking for a pillow contract and wants to maximize his earnings this offseason, it’s really tough to say what kind of deal he could land. Remember that Ian Kennedy and Jeff Samardjzija were both coming off of terrible seasons and they landed five guaranteed years and $70-90 million. If the bidding reaches those heights there is no way the Yankees get involved, and rightly so.

However, if teams are scared off by his ugly numbers this year, New York might be able to swoop in and grab him cheaply. Maybe two years and $30 million gets it done?

Next: Brett Anderson