MLB rumors: Yankees among ‘handful’ of early Zach Britton suitors

The New York Yankees are among a handful of teams who have reached out to free agent left-handed reliever Zach Britton, a person close to the discussions tells NJ Advance Media. Britton is represented by agent Scott Boras, who also represents free-agent outfielder Bryce Harper.

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CARLSBAD, Calif. — The Yankees are among a handful of teams that have reached out to lefty reliever Zach Britton, “laying groundwork” for talks toward a potential deal, a person familiar with the discussions told NJ Advance Media.

The person requested anonymity because he wasn’t authorized to speak publicly.

While nothing substantial has moved with Britton’s market, it’s expected that serious suitors will distinguish themselves over the next few weeks, the person said.

21 things learned at GM Meetings

Boras Corporation represents Britton, who is expected to see a serious payday after years as one of the game’s top closers and a productive half-season in the Bronx. 

Agent Scott Boras arrived at the 2018 MLB General Managers Meetings at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa late Tuesday night. It’s possible Boras, who also represents Bryce Harper, will speak to reporters Wednesday.

Britton, 30, became a big piece of the Yankees’ bullpen, particularly when closer Aroldis Chapman went on the disabled list, after general manager Brian Cashman acquired him from the Orioles in exchange for a package of prospects at the trade deadline.

Britton, working back from Achilles surgery, posted a 3.10 ERA in 41 games between the Orioles and Yankees in 2018. With the Yankees, he had a 2.88 ERA in 25 games.

The Yankees have said adding starting pitching will be their top priority in the offseason. They also have to fill a hole at shortstop, thanks to Didi Gregorius‘ Tommy John surgery. Gregorius might not be healed until the summer. They will also look to fortify a bullpen that has also seen right-hander David Robertson enter free agency.

Britton said during the regular season that he would “love to be back” with the Yankees, that closing wasn’t necessarily as important to him as he originally thought, and that he believes the Yankees are set up to win for years.

Brendan Kuty may be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @BrendanKutyNJ. Find NJ.com Yankees on Facebook.