As another week is crossed off the offseason calendar, some names are crossed off as well. The Yankees signed Randy Winn, while the Reds are close to a deal with Orlando Cabrera.
These deals stare Johnny Damon -- possibly the best prize left on the market -- right in the face, and stand between a job and a massive pay cut for the all-star and world champion.
The Yankees' signing of Randy Winn likely pulls Damon off the table for good. That's no big deal really, considering Damon was unlikely to return in the first place.
When the Reds finalize their deal with Orlando Cabrera, it will most defintely pull them off the Damon market. With the signing of Aroldis Chapman in the books, the Reds are now likely out of cash.
That leaves the A's as the last serious suitor. A week ago they were very tuned into the Damon situation, but now appear to be pulling back. They, like many other teams, think that Damon, at age 36, will unlikely replicate his success of years past.
In an interview with WFAN, Damon briefly touched on the idea that he could return to the Yankees via a mid-season trade, a one-year deal next year, or even possibly a deal this year.
But considering how the Yankees have already lost signifiant talent such as Melky Cabrera and Austin Jackson this offseason, they are unlikely to give up what would be needed to haul in Damon in a mid-season trade.
It has been no secret that the Yankees are saving up for next offseason. Jeter and Rivera will be due for new contracts, and there will be a lot of desireable talent on the free agent market. It is unlikely that the Yankees will want to spend any money on a 37-year-old outfielder, especially considering Brian Cashman's obvious desire to go younger.
This offseason, the Yankees insisted on multiple occasions that they had a strict budget, and that was the reason for not pursuing Damon. But this is the Yankees Organization. Can we seriously believe that the Yankees, the richest team in baseball, were unwilling to spend the extra $4-5 million it would take to bring back Damon? The budget was likely a cover up for New York's true feelings about Damon: We just don't need him.
So, we can rule out the mid-season trade, the contract next offseason and the contract this offseason. We can also rule out the Reds and the A's for this season.
Last week, it seemed as though Damon had many options. The A's were talking about him, the Reds were thinking about him, and even the Rays were in the discussion for a minute or two. This week, Damon finds himself staring at a future of uncertainty.
Update | 12:38 PM The A's sign Gabe Gross to fill their outfield needs. That likely takes them out of the running for Damon, who now sees virtually no suitors on the horizon.
Update (Feb. 2nd) The Detroit Tigers are expected to sign Johnny Damon. With rookie Austin Jackson slated to start for Detroit after the Granderson deal, the Tigers recognize the importance in adding depth to their outfield and lineup.
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