Yankees Likely to Pass on A.J. Burnett

The Bronx Bombers have been tied to about every free agent this offseason -- rightfully so, since, you know, they are going to sign everyone -- and obviously Blue Jays' right-hander A.J. Burnett was not an exception. It would appear there is a difference in desire, however, at this point:

Darek Braunecker, Burnett's agent, has made it known that he's seeking a five-year contract for his client. According to the New York Daily News, citing a baseball executive, the Yankees aren't likely to send an offer Burnett's way as long as the pitcher insists on inking a five-year pact.

Yes, recent reports had surfaced that the elusive fifth year for the injury-prone hurler would be the sticking point. There is some speculation as to who is going to be the team willing to pay Burnett five years. The Jays are still mulling over how much to offer, but they are interested and are not scared to offer him a fifth year.

The issue with offering so many years is obviously Burnett's health. He was healthy for all of '08, which enabled him to flash his potential as the AL leader in punch-outs. Prior to that, however, he made more than 30 starts only twice in his eight full seasons. Giving a five-year deal to a soon-to-be 32 year-old with his injury history is not an enticing proposition, which explains why the Yankees won't even stretch themselves this far.

Spending big money on CC Sabathia and Mark Teixeira will be a higher priority then making sure A.J. Burnett is gettting paid when he's 37. Even the Yankees can figure that out.