The Yankees interest in Carl Crawford is real but tied to what develops with Cliff Lee and Andy Pettitte.
And never ignore that the team’s interest in Crawford could be to drive up the price on the Red Sox, who are chasing the free-agent left fielder along with the Angels and Tigers.
The Rangers also have been linked to the left-handed hitting outfielder who is among the fastest runners in the game.
“They [the Yankees] are going to get into it,’’ a person close to the situation said. “A lot depends on what happens with Lee, if they get him or not. Pettitte, too.’’
With the Yankees close to signing Mariano Rivera to a two-year deal close to $30 million; know Lee is looking for $140 million for five or six years; have increased a three-year, $45 million offer to Derek Jeter; and want Pettitte back, it’s not likely that they can add Crawford as well.
Pettitte hasn’t told the Yankees what his plans are.
However, when it comes to big fish, the Yankees are never shy.
Crawford, 29, batted .307 last year for the Rays and scored 110 runs, hit 18 homers, drove in 90 runs and swiped 47 bases in 57 attempts. He is the premier free-agent position player on the market and made $10 million last year.
Should Lee remain in Texas, the Yankees’ interest in Crawford would increase and force them to make a decision with outfielder Nick Swisher or Brett Gardner.