Cuban defectors open to any team, name Yankees

A couple weeks ago, it was reported that Cuban pitcher Yadel Marti and Cuban outfielder Yasser Gomez made it to the US and hope to play for major league teams next year. Marti is one of Cuba's best pitchers and dominated in the World Baseball Classic a few years back. Gomez is a speedy outfielder. Both players are seen as capable of playing in the majors now.

Newsday is reporting that both are currently in New York. In an interview with the two players they said they were willing to play for any team, but specifically named the Yankees, White Sox and Red Sox as some teams they may have interest in.

The White Sox of course are home to several Cuban defectors such as Jose Contreras, Alexi Ramirez and Dayan Viciedo, so they may have the inside track if they are interested.

I wouldn't mind the Yankees signing either player. Marti could be given the chance to be our 5th starter, and if not supposedly has experience as a closer, so he could move to the bullpen. Gomez could compete with Cabrera and Gardner for the center field job. I hope the Yankees go after both of these players, especially Marti.