2012 MLB Free Agency: CJ Wilson and 5 Pitchers the Yankees Will Pursue

After a disappointing and shocking exit from the ALDS, the New York Yankees will certainly be looking to improve their team this offseason. The starting rotation will likely be a priority for the Yankees.

There are a number of free-agent pitchers that the Yankees will look at this winter. The Yankees will likely make at least one big splash this winter and it will likely be on a starter.

Yu Darvish

After their experience with Kei Igawa, the New York Yankees might be a little hesitant to go after Yu Darvish if the is posted this winter. Japanese pitchers have not fared that well in the US and Darvish will be asking for a lot of money.

Darvish has absolutely dominated Japan, going 17-6 with a 1.49 ERA for the Nippon Ham Fighters this year. He also performed well at the World Baseball Classic in 2009, which is a sign that he may be able to succeed in the MLB.

CJ Wilson

While it is uncertain that Yu Darvish will be available this winter, it is known that CJ Wilson will be on the free agent market. He is one of the best starters that will be available this year.

After being converted to a starter, Wilson has been able to find a lot of success. Over the past two years, Wilson has gone 31-15 with a 3.14 ERA. In 2011, he had the fourth highest win total in the AL and the seventh lowest ERA. He would be a good fit for the Yankees' rotation.

CC Sabathia

With his success this season, it is almost certain that CC Sabathia will opt out of his deal this winter. He will be able to pick up tens of millions of dollars by doing so and both he and his agents, Greg Genske and Scott Parker, know this.

There are not many teams that can afford Sabathia so the Yankees may end up bidding against themselves. The Red Sox will likely put in an offer just to drive up the price. The Yankees cannot afford to lose Sabathia this winter.

Edwin Jackson

The New York Yankees need help in the middle of their rotation. Edwin Jackson could be the player that is the answer to their problems.

Jackson is young, he is just 28, and he has improved significantly over the past few years. He could make a good number three or four starter for the Yankees.

Paul Maholm

Paul Maholm is a much better pitcher than his 6-14 record from 2011 indicates. He pitched well for the Pittsburgh Pirates this season and was one of the reasons why they looked like a playoff caliber team earlier this season.

While the Yankees seemingly have no problem spending a ton of money on players, Maholm would be a much more cost effective option for them. He could help shore up the back end of their rotation.