The Yankees are searching for bullpen help, but Francisco Rodriguez is not on their wish list.
A published report had the Mets closer saying he would be willing to accept a setup role in The Bronx, but a source said the Yankees have “no interest” in Rodriguez if he is traded.
Rodriguez has 20 saves, but the Yankees don’t like several things about him, from his contract to his off-field behavior. Doing a deal with their crosstown rivals is also a tricky situation that could inflate what the Mets look for in return.
Yankees manager Joe Girardi and general manager Brian Cashman both declined to comment on Rodriguez, saying they wanted to avoid tampering with a player under contract to another team.
The Yankees hope to have Rafael Soriano back some time before the end of July. Their $35 million setup man is on the 60-day disabled list with right elbow inflammation. With Joba Chamberlain lost for the season after Tommy John surgery, the Yankees have been piecing their bullpen together.
Rodriguez will make $11.5 million this year and has a $17.5 million option that will kick in if he finishes 55 games this season. He already has completed 28, and is on pace to finish 60 games.
If he became a setup man, however, it is unlikely he would hit the games finished number. If that happened, his team would have to buy him out for $3.5 million.