Free-Agent Watch: Torii Hunter

Torri Hunter could be laughing a one-year Yankee offer.

The New York Yankees could be looking for an outfielder as Nick Swisher is expected to come off the books and a spot opens up in right field. Torii Hunter is among the players that the Yankees have been rumored to be considering. Yet the Dodgers appear to be the front runners with two weeks until Hunter makes his decision.

The Yankees could offer a one year contract to the 37-year old, but other teams could go for two years. His glove could be used in right field as he has nine Gold Glove awards to show for his skill set, which has not declined with age.

On Sunday, Mark Feinsand of the Daily News tweeted that a source does not expect Hunter to land with the Yankees. Hunter is friends with Matt Kemp of the Dodgers, which could lead to keeping him on the West Coast.

Productivity could go down for a player like Hunter in 2013, but he is one of the best options that the Yankees will find without dipping into their payroll for 2014. As time creeps closer, the sub-$189MM payroll is looking tougher to abide by, so moves have to be adjusted accordingly.

Posted in: Free Agency, Hot Stove, MLB, New York Yankees