Yankees Rumors: Dallas Keuchel More Likely To Join New York With Free Agency Extending To MLB Draft

Despite the question marks in their rotation, the New York Yankees had been a long shot to sign Dallas Keuchel. That has changed with the starting pitcher's extended free agency, and he seems more and more likely to head to the Big Apple the longer he remains on the open market.

The Yankees were unwilling to give Keuchel a long-term deal in the offseason. That probably isn't an obstacle since the left-hander is reportedly willing to sign a one-year contract so he can pursue a multi-year deal after the 2019 season. There currently is the issue of having to forfeit a compensatory draft pick to sign Keuchel, but that won’t be the case once the MLB Draft gets underway on June 3.

With only a few weeks remaining until the draft, it doesn’t seem as if any team will blow Keuchel away with an offer anytime soon. If Keuchel remains unsigned next month, the Yankees might have to be considered the favorites to land the former AL Cy Young winner.

MLB Insider Jon Heyman has noted since the start of this past offseason that Keuchel is interested in playing on the big stage in New York City. He indicated to WFAN’s “Joe & Evan” Thursday that the Yankees might have the best chance to finally sign the veteran.

SNY.tv’s Andy Martino recently reported that the Yankees intend to improve the rotation this season, noting that Keuchel is on the team’s radar. New York could potentially add a proven playoff performer like Madison Bumgarner, but doing so would cost them multiple high-end prospects.

If the Yankees sign Keuchel in June, all they would have to surrender is money, and likely only for the rest of this year.

Keuchel turned down the Houston Astros’ $17.9 million qualifying offer in November. Giving him the equivalent of that offer for the final four months of the season would cost the Yankees around $12 million, which is certainly something New York can afford.

New York has been the American League’s best team for nearly a month, giving them no immediate need to acquire another starter. That could change as they make a push toward the playoffs, especially if Luis Severino remains out with an injury.

The Milwaukee Brewers and Atlanta Braves have also been linked to Keuchel this season.