New York Yankees right-hander Phil Hughes is being shopped for offensive help.
CBS Sports reported Wednesday the Yankees were making Hughes available with designs on landing a middle-of-the-order hitter in return. Paul Konerko of the Chicago White Sox might be the most affordable power hitter on the market. At 37, he has been steady and his $13.5 million salary comes off the books at the end of the season.
The Yankees are without Derek Jeter for two more weeks, and Mark Teixeira (wrist) and Alex Rodriguez (hip) are not guarantees to play any time soon. Rodriguez is slowing getting back into baseball game action, but he’s reportedly facing possible suspension from Major League Baseball for his alleged involvement with a Florida biogenesis lab.
Hughes can become a free agent at the end of the season and is considered a No. 2 or No. 3 starter. However, he’s struggled to translate arm talent into consistent results. This season, he’s 4-8 with a 4.55 ERA, 78 strikeouts and 25 walks. Like the White Sox, the Seattle Mariners could have interest in Hughes if they can sign him to a contract extension.
The Mariners might be willing to part with Kendry Morales and the Yankees have a history of dealing with Seattle. The Mariners could also part with former Yankees designated hitter Raul Ibanez.