Francisco Liriano Trade Scenarios: 5 Teams Calling Before Opening Day

It’s an odd thing to see, but Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Francisco Liriano has been dominating Grapefruit League play this spring. That includes Liriano’s five no-hit innings against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday in a 10-0 victory.

That being said, Liriano is a prime candidate to get traded away. Who might be calling Terry Ryan about Liriano though?

New York Yankees

It wasn't too long ago that the Yankees were knocking down the door for Liriano, but the two teams couldn't make a deal. Now may be another time for them to take a look.

Granted, the team did just sign Andy Pettite to come out of retirement, but you can never have too much pitching. It’s the thing that seems to always be holding the Yanks back anyway. They might just give a call.

Washington Nationals

The Nationals may be a lot closer than people realize to being a legitimate contender, but their rotation may be a little weak behind the flame-throwing Stephen Strasburgh. Liriano could fill in rather nicely.

If Liriano would go to Washington, he would be reunited with the one that got away from the Twins—catcher Wilson Ramos, who was sent there in the Matt Capps trade.

Texas Rangers

Two straight years the Texas Rangers have been so close, yet so far away. They could still be wanting to add to their starting pitching. This offseason the Rangers won the war for Yu Darvish, but another arm wouldn't hurt.

This relocation would reunite Liraino with former Twins closer Joe Nathan, who signed with Texas during the offseason.

Los Angeles Angels

It looks like the Angels are going all in this year. They signed Albert Pujols to a huge contract, so why not call about Liriano? The Angels already have a pretty good rotation, but can you ever have enough pitching?

No, you can’t. The Angels very likely might put in a call to gauge the availability of Liriano.

Detroit Tigers

Just like the Angels, the Tigers made a big move this offseason with their signing of Prince Fielder. I’m definitely not sold on the Tigers' rotation, though. With the obvious exception of Justin Verlander, nobody seems to really jump out at you.

Liriano could be that great No. 2 guy for the Tigers, but it may be a tough call since both teams are in the American League Central. Then again, that didn't stop the Delmon Young deal last year.