MLB: Pirates have looked into acquiring Yankees starter A.J. Burnett?

The Pittsburgh Pirates have expressed a level of interest in 35 year old Yankees starter A.J. Burnett this winter. Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports that the Pirates expressed interest at one point in Burnett who is owed $16.5 million in each of the next two seasons. Burnett is signed through the 2013 season and has a no trade clause which puts little chance in the Pirates having much of any shot to acquire Burnett.

Burnett signed a 5 year – $82.5 million deal with New York in December 2008 , but has been a huge disappointment. He went 11-11 with a 5.15 era in 2011 and had an awful 2010 campaign, going 10-15 for New York.

The Yankees have been willing to part with Burnett but have yet to find a team who’s not demanding the Yankees pick up almost all of Burnett’s salary.

The Pirates remain in the market for a starting pitcher. They have maintained interest in LHP Jeff Francis but continue to balk at Francis price. The team has also showed interest in former Rockies pitcher Aaron Cook.