Yankees considering Omar Infante, Brandon Phillips as Cano alternatives

While the New York Yankees are prioritizing re-signing second baseman Robinson Cano this offseason, they are also considering alternatives in case Cano signs elsewhere.

According to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com, the team has inquired about the availability of Cincinnati Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips, but thought that the initial price was way too steep.

In addition, George A. King III of the New York Post reports that the Yankees have checked in on free agent Omar Infante, who is considered the second-best available second baseman on the free agent market this winter.

As Bob Nightengale of USA Today recently reported, the Reds will be active this winter in shopping Phillips, who hit .263 with 18 HR and 103 RBI in 151 games on the season. The 32-year old will likely draw interest from many teams looking for a cheaper alternative to Cano, and there is a good chance that he will be dealt this winter.

Infante, who did not receive a qualifying offer from the Tigers, is expected to receive a multi-year deal from a team looking for a second baseman this winter. The Tigers are also expected to pursue Cano, but could always decide on a reunion with Infante if Cano goes elsewhere for a bigger payday.

In addition to Cano and Infante, the list of free agent second basemen includes Mark Ellis, Nick Punto, Kelly Johnson and Brian Roberts.

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