While the Yankees scour the free-agent and trade markets for a right-handed hitting outfielder, Raul Ibanez could be moving closer to leaving The Bronx.
According to a person with knowledge of the situation, the Mariners have “serious interest’’ in signing the 40-year-old free agent designated hitter and outfielder.
The Rangers and Phillies also are thinking about adding Ibanez’s productive bat and professional attitude to their clubhouses.
The Yankees have been talking to Ibanez’s agent, but it has been general talk and not negotiations. Like every other club Ibanez has played for, the Yankees like him on several fronts. Nevertheless, as has been their strategy this offseason, the Yankees have placed one need ahead of others and at the moment it’s securing a righty-hitting outfielder because all three of their outfielders swing from the left side.
General manager Brian Cashman said Thursday the free-agent and trade pools “are not deep’’ when it comes to acquiring a righty-hitting outfielder.
Free agent Scott Hairston intrigues the Yankees, but his wishes for a multi-year contract have stalled talks. The Phillies also have an interest in Hairston, who played for the Mets last season.
The Mariners’ interest in Ibanez, who played for them from 1996 to 2000 and 2004 to 2008, means they are thinking about giving former Yankees prospect Jesus Montero a chance to be the regular catcher. Montero was primarily a DH last year. Seattle acquired first baseman Kendrys Morales this week from the Angels, which makes Justin Smoak, the key player in their 2010 Cliff Lee deal with Texas, available in a trade.
Ibanez, who had a $1.1 million contract last season, enjoyed his stint with the Yankees and hit 19 homers during the regular season and three more in the postseason.
If Ibanez leaves — and his desire to play for the Yankees can’t be ignored — the Yankees could turn to Eduardo Nunez to be the DH. Nunez’s bat and live body would add dimensions to a lineup that needs each.