I spoke to a Yankees scout about the recent fan furor over Jesus Montero‘s performance, who told me that Montero is not only behind Gary Sanchez in the catching depth charts, but some feel Austin Romine has moved ahead as well.

I was told that Montero would more likely be the center of a deal this July, than spend time in pinstripes.

The Yankees are still looking for starting pitching. They view the Twins Francisco Liriano as too much of an injury risk. As I mentioned earlier in the week, they like Florida’s Anibal Sanchez, and believe he is over the problems with his shoulder. Of course, they love Felix Hernandez, but he isn’t available. They would go “all out” if Jered Weaver went on the block, and are thinking about Dan Haren. Right now, LA is in the race so it’s not an option. One guy they could have right now is Edwin Jackson of the White Sox. They would prefer Mark Buehrle or John Danks (currently injured), but neither is an option. There is no interest in Jackson.

Where they would more likely make a deal is the bullpen. Scouts are in Chicago this weekend to watch Kerry Wood, who will waive his no-trade clause to come back to New York. Joakim Soria would love to pitch for the Yanks, but Dayton Moore wants the “moon” (the Killer B’s came up when Soria’s name was discussed); in other words, not likely to happen.

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I saw where some people questioned my thoughts on Heath Bell and the Red Sox. The theory behind that is Boston would get involved if talks with the Yankees ever got serious. This could be more of a blocking move.

For those that think the Adrian Gonzalez deal was good “value,” there is more than one person I spoke to that believed Gonzalez deserved at least one major league ready player in that deal. Whether Anthony Rizzo is that guy remains to be seen. I still think Hoyer sold low to his buddy Theo.

Frank is a resident of East Brunswick, NJ and former radio announcer. He is a 4th generation Republican and Yankees Fan. He also enjoys listening to talk radio. His favorite announcer is Shawn Hannity of “Hannity” on FOX and enjoys reading about military history. In addition to rooting for the Yankees, he also has a passion for the New York Islanders. You can enjoy Frank’s work at The Dead Ball Era and his book “Bury My Heart at Cooperstown”. Check out his “Rants and Raves” on New York Baseball Digest.

Frank Russo

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Tags: Anibal Sanchez, Austin Romine, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Dan Haren, Edwin Jackson, Felix Hernandez, Florida Marlins, Francisco Liriano, Gary Sanchez, Heath Bell, Jered Weaver, Jesus Montero, Joakim Soria, John Danks, Kansas City Royals, Kerry Wood, Los Angeles Angels, Mark Buehrle, Minnesota Twins, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners