Yankees rumors are coming a mile a minute this offseason in regards to free agent signings and potential trades, and what we have seen thus far from the Bronx looks to be just the tip of the iceberg.
According to ESPN Insider analyst AJ Mass, the Philadelphia Philles would be more than willing to shop several of their high-priced superstars if they get off to a slow start in the first half of the 2014 season. Most notably, Cliff Lee, Jimmy Rollins, and/or Cole Hamels may end up on the trading block if the Phillies decide to blow things up and get younger.
If the rumors turn out to be true, the New York Yankees' ability and willingness to take on extra salary in order to win now could instantly thrust them to the top of the list of teams the Philadelphia Phillies would contact.
Both Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels could be notable additions to a Yankees' starting rotation that still has significant question marks after the signing of Japanese sensation Masahiro Tanaka. Also, if Jimmy Rollins can return to form after a down 2013 season which saw his WAR drop to just 0.2, he could instantly become a coveted asset for the New York Yankees if Derek Jeter's left ankle injury continues to plague him.