The Yankees have been unable to find takers for Josh Donaldson and Aaron Hicks. Donaldson played a great third base, but his patented bat speed is a question. Donaldson’s presence and pay were one reason Carlos Correa couldn’t work for them.
The Mets may like to find a taker for James McCann and Darin Ruf, good players before they got to Queens. …
The Yankees want to bring back Andrew Benintendi but not at five years. …
One rival exec calls Pittsburgh’s asking price for Bryan Reynolds “ridiculous.” My suspicion: They don’t want to trade him. …
Dansby Swanson married Chicago Red Stars star Mallory Pugh on Saturday, adding to Cubs speculation. Other outside possibilities include the Dodgers and Red Sox, who are seriously considering Swanson now and likely prefer to keep Trevor Story at 2B. The Dodgers are said to be on the periphery and would need a price drop. The incumbent Braves are cautious payers but can’t be ruled out.
The Twins appear to be regrouping after losing out on Carlos Correa, so Swanson’s likely out.
The Dodgers haven’t acted like themselves this year (they want to reset their tax) and may be OK with Gavin Lux at shortstop. …
Some expect Trevor Bauer will win back some of the time/money from his suspension. Word is the Dodgers want no part of him back with the team, however, and will release him if/when he’s let back in. …
The Giants haven’t said for sure, but Correa is said to be OK if he has to play third base for a year, so they could keep franchise stalwart Brandon Crawford at shortstop. …
The Marlins, Cubs and Astros are linked to Michael Conforto. Though if he proves healthy, a return for Michael Brantley may work for Houston. …
The Marlins seem amenable to two years for Justin Turner, who also has the Dodgers, D-Backs and others. …
The Giants and Angels were on Chris Bassitt before he went to Toronto. …
The Royals were pretty close on Zack Greinke, but the price rise for starters caused a delay. The Royals still hope to have a shot.
Heard Jacob deGrom’s medicals actually looked very good.
