The New York Yankees rumors surrounding several key pitchers this offseason just won’t die down as we churn closer to spring training. The Bombers are determined to sign another starting pitcher before the 2018 season begins, but the question is which pitcher are they targeting?

With Cole gone, Darvish a top priority?

The Yankees had a strong interest in Gerrit Cole this offseason, this was no secret. When New York couldn’t strike a deal with the Pirates, Pittsburgh ended up sending Cole to the Houston Astros instead. With that deal done, it seems that New York has made obtaining Yu Darvish a top priority.

The interest in Darvish seems to be mutual, but will they be able to come to a deal soon?

According to Bronx Pinstripes, YES Network play-by-play man Michael Kay said on his ESPN Radio show that the Yankees made an offer of $160 million over seven years to free agent starter Yu Darvish at some point during this offseason. Allegedly, Darvish did not agree to those terms for one reason or another.

Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman confirmed that he has spoken to Darvish’s representatives, but it has been difficult for both sides to reach an agreement. One big reason could be that New York doesn’t want to break their $197 million dollar cap - which would move them up in the luxury tax for 2018.

If the Yankees do sign Darvish, look for them to try to strike deals for high paid players like reliever David Robertson and outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury.

While the report indicates that the Yankees have offered a deal to the right-hander, Darvish took to Twitter to say he hasn’t been offered any type of deal at this time.

Tigers trade still in play?

Right behind the possibility of a Yu Darvish signing, another rumor that continues to pop up is a trade between the Detroit Tigers and New York Yankees with Michael Fulmer being the key player.

The Yankees have been interested in the hard-throwing righty from Motown, ever since Rumors of a possible deal for Fulmer began circulating last August.

If for some reason the Yankees don't sign Darvish in free agency, don't be surprised if trade talks between the Tigers and Yankees heat up once again.

It may be a tough negotiation between these two clubs because the Tigers will be asking for a lot in return for Fulmer. Yankees' prospects Clint Frazier and Chance Adams may be right at the top of that list as part of the asking price. The Tigers are determined to bolster the team with youth, and Adams and Frazier are two of the top prospects in the Yankees organization.
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