New York, NY

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has denied a report claiming the team has been talking with the Miami Marlins about a possible trade involving slumping third baseman Alex Rodriguez.

"I've had no discussions whatsoever with the Marlins," Cashman said. "I certainly would never have any trade discussions under the circumstances. I can tell you there are no discussions whatsoever. We are not down the line on any trade talks on any of our players, including Alex."

Cashman made the reaction after former sports correspondent and political commentator Keith Olbermann reported that there was a discussion between Yankees president Randy Levine and Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria about A-Rod, a Miami resident.

The report, however, described the conversation between two team officials as a "casual, joking conversation."

An ESPN.com source, however, said that Rodriguez prefers the Marlins in case he will be traded by the Yankees. He has full no-trade clause and would need to approve any potential deal.

Rodriguez has five years and a guaranteed $114 million -- plus performance-based incentives -- remaining on his contract signed after he won the AL MVP Award in 2007.

Due to his hitting struggles, the slugger has been benched by manager Joe Girardi thrice and was pinch hit once in the postseason.

"I really feel that in my heart, any time I'm in that lineup, the team is a better team, without any question," Rodriguez said. We'll disagree there to the end, but I like Joe. I support Joe."

Despite this humbling experience, Rodriguez said he wants to remain with the Yankees.

"I love the Yankees -- I love this organization," Rodriguez said. "My focus right now is to help this team come together and win a game. Let's just focus on winning a game."

 

Yankees Deny Talking to Marlins About A-Rod Trade

 

Copyright © 2012 AHN - All Rights Reserved