Yanks, Mets Are Already Looking To ‘98

The Yankees and Mets gave New Yorkers a great summer, and an exciting winter looms, too. The teams’ top trade targets are becoming apparent, and they are big targets. Huge targets.

The Yankees desperately want Minnesota Twins second baseman Chuck Knoblauch, but no more than the Mets crave Boston Red Sox first baseman Mo Vaughn.

The Yankees have been searching for an elite second baseman for years, and Knoblauch is probably baseball’s second-best second baseman after Roberto Alomar. He also happens to be arguably the best leadoff hitter (his 255 runs during the past two years leads the majors).

The Mets could use some pop, and Vaughn would provide that.

Rey Sanchez has done an admirable job, but George Steinbrenner can’t resist Knoblauch, who is all but begging for the Bronx. This is an unusual request for a player who has experienced the Minnesota calm. Another plus is Knoblauch’s $6 million annual price tag over the next four seasons.

If they decide to deal Knoblauch, the Twins are sure to ask for Andy Pettitte or Mariano Rivera. The Yankees won’t consider either, preferring instead to package prospects. They already lament having wasted coveted right-handed pitcher Tony Armas in the deal for Mike Stanley, whom they don’t need.

John Olerud has done a nice job at first base, but Vaughn gives the Mets credibility. He also brings needed personality. If fan favorite Todd Hundley can’t begin the 1998 season because of his ailing elbow, Vaughn would be the perfect replacement. Oddly, the one drawback to obtaining Vaughn is that first base no longer would be an option for Hundley when he returns.