MLB trade rumours: New York Yankees trying to make room for Cole? J.A. Happ exit looms

2019 MLB Winter meetings kicked off on Sunday and trade window has already seen a record deal go through. Stephen Strasburg signed a seven-year $245 million record deal with Washington Nationals. With Strasburg gone, many teams will focus ir attention on or top free-nts: Gerrit Cole, Anthony Rendon and Josh Donaldson.

Also Read: MLB Trade Rumours: Zack Wheeler, Philadelphia Phillies Agree To 5-year Deal

MLB trade rumours: New York Yankees favourites to sign Gerrit Cole?

New York Yankees are favourites to get Gerrit Cole on ir roster, but face stiff competition from both Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels. But if history is something to go by, Yankees are kwn to stretch limits to get ir desired targets. New York Yankees have made a five year $245 million offer for Gerrit Cole according to multiple American media reports, a record figure for a pitcher. 

Also Read: MLB Trade Rumours: Stephen Strasburg Re-signs With Washington Nationals In Record Deal

MLB trade rumours: Yankees 'actively' pursuing J.A. Happ trade

Yankees are already making efforts to make some on ir roster for potential acquisition of Gerrit Cole, with New York side willing to offload veteran J.A. Happ. Happ signed a $34 million deal running for 2 years in 2018. New York Yankees are actively shopping for him, considering J.A. Happ accounts for $17 million towards luxury tax, a figure that Yankees are trying to cut down.

Also Read: MLB Trade Rumours: New York Yankees Have Reportedly Made A $245m Offer For Gerrit Cole

MLB trade rumours: Why trading J.A. Happ won't be an easy job for Yankees

New York Yankees will be over first luxury-tax brink of $208 million and most likely second penalty level of $228 million as well in 2020. If Yankees man to move most of Happ’s payroll, y can avoid $248 million top penalty level of payment. J.A. Happ is coming off of a mediocre year for New York Yankees. 37-year surrendered a career-worst 34 homes runs in 161.1 innings. Happ went 12-8 with a 4.91 ERA and was eventually downgraded to pitching in relief behind an opener. Trading J.A. Happ won’t be easy considering his , salary and his disastrous 2019 season. But a deal can be worked upon if New York Yankees offer to cover some of player’s salary or add a promising prospect or two.

Also Read: MLB Trade Rumours: Texas Rangers Could Sign New York Yankees Player Miguel Andujar