Brian McCann will be one of the most sought after free agents this offseason. The reality the catcher's career with the Atlanta Braves is coming to an end is very real. McCann has been a Brave for his entire nine-year career, but salary demands might prevent the team from re-signing him. Plenty of other clubs are lining up for the chance to get one of the best catchers in the game today.
ESPN reports the New York Yankees are keeping a very close eye on McCann and will likely make a run for the free agent when they get the chance. The Yankees have been making a point to say they intend on staying below the $198 million luxury tax threshold, the team could be coming into some money if the Alex Rodriguez suspension is upheld. The Yankees would save $27.5 million if the suspension is held up, allowing them to have room to sign both McCann and free-agent-to-be Robinson Cano who will also demand a large contract.
McCann could possibly earn big bucks in the offseason. One general manager told ESPN he could possibly earn a six-year, $100 million deal if he plays his cards right. The only other catchers to earn that amount are Joe Mauer and Buster Posey. McCann's $12 million salary made him the third highest-paid catcher in the league last season.
The 29-year-old continues to prove worthy of the money. He is hitting .277 with seven All-Star appearances and five Silver Slugger awards. McCann's numbers could easily increase at Yankee Stadium. McCann has hit at least 20 home runs in each season since 2007. Turner Field is a much larger ballpark than Yankee Stadium.
McCann would be a significant upgrade from any other catcher on the Yankees roster. Francisco Cervelli, Austin Romine, Chris Steward and JR Murphy combined for a .213 average with eight home runs and 43 RBI. McCann would be a welcomed change.
Atlanta is almost already considered out of the running for the catcher. The team has not addressed their plans about McCann. Recently, Frank Wren announced the Braves intended to re-sign starting pitcher Tim Hudson, but nothing more. The general manager remained very complimentary of backup catcher and all-around tool man Evan Gattis, possibly showing signs of the future.
