MLB Rumors: New York Yankees Making Strong Pursuit for Russell Martin?

The Yankees nearly made a trade for a catcher this week.

According to the New York Times' Michael S. Schmidt, the Yankees and Dodgers nearly had a deal worked out that would have sent Francisco Cervelli to Los Angeles for Russell Martin.

The Dodgers did just non-tender Martin, making him a free agent, so now the Yankees wouldn't have to give up anybody if they wanted to pursue Martin to be their next catcher.

It's not surprising the Yankees are looking for a possible upgrade at catcher considering long-time catcher Jorge Posada is transitioning to the designated hitter spot for 2011.

The only catcher on the roster is Cervelli, who had a strong beginning and finish in 2010, but struggled during the middle of the season.

The Yankees have also said they are trying to allow Jesus Montero, their top catching prospect in the minors, to win the starting job for 2011.

However, many feel that Montero's catching skills have not come along as they would like, though his power on offense might be helpful.

Trying to acquire Martin could be very beneficial if he's healthy.

He's only 27 years old, a two-time All-Star and 2007 Gold Glove winner who can hit for some power and average.

Martin is recovering from a hip fracture that limited him to just 97 games in 2010, which is why the Dodgers non-tendered him and are close to a deal to bring in Rod Barajas.

According to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the Yankees are one of six teams interested in Martin. The other rumored teams are the Mariners, Mets, Rangers, Royals and Brewers.

The Dodgers are still in contact with Martin's agent, Matt Colleran, but if Los Angeles does bring in Barajas, then Martin is likely not going back to the Dodgers.

If the Yankees do make a move to sign Martin, it can only mean that they still don't feel that Montero is ready for the starting job.

If Martin is in fact healthy and ready to go for spring training, the Yankees should in fact look to sign him to a short-term deal filled with incentives that could increase Martin's salary.

ESPN's Buster Olney did mention that considering Martin is from Montreal and would like to play on the East Coast.

That fact right there can only help the Yankees' possible chances for Martin if they are seriously interested in bringing him in.

This is one of the newer situations developing for the Yankees, and who knows how it will play out.