MLB rumors: Could Nationals, Cubs, Dodgers pursue Robinson Cano?

If Robinson Cano doesn't agree to a contract extension with the New York Yankees and ultimately hits the free agent market, ESPN's Buster Olney believes the Washington Nationals, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers and Houston Astros could be among the teams to express interest in the second baseman.

At this point, there's no guarantee that Cano reaches the open market. The Yankees have expressed a desire to retain Cano, as he's poised to be the next face of the franchise. However, there are several reasons New York could be hesitant of sign the slugger to a lucrative extension, opening the door on the possibility that he walks following the 2013 season.

If that happens, Olney wonders if the Nationals would make a run at him. Washington is certainly comfortable with Scott Boras clients - see Stephen Strasburg, Jayson Werth, Danny Espinosa, Bryce Harper, Bryce Harper and Rafael Soriano.

Beyond the Nationals, Olney could see the Cubs, Dodgers and Astros, three teams that will have money to spend, expressing interest in Cano. Every team figures to be interested, but his asking price will weed out many potential suitors.

Cano has developed into one of the game's top position players, and as such he will likely command a $200 million-plus commitment if his level of production continues. Last season he hit .313/.379/.550 with 48 doubles and 33 home runs, and the 30-year-old owns a career batting line of .308/.351/.503 over eight seasons in the majors.