Yankees unlikely to sign Max Scherzer

The potential landing spots for free-agent pitcher Max Scherzer continue to shrink. 

With the St. Louis Cardinals and Detroit Tigers already bowing out of potentially making the right-hander one of the richest pitchers in baseball, the New York Yankees have also said that they're unlikely to meet Scherzer's lofty salary demands. 

Scherzer - represented by agent Scott Boras - is reportedly hoping to land a contract north of $200 million. Though, who is likely to shell out those sort of dollars for the 2013 Cy Young winner remains to be seen. 

"I think that’s a lot higher level than we’re willing to play in right now," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman told NBC's Bruce Beck. 

"I don’t think Yankee fans will be looking at Max Scherzer."

The Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers are potential fits, due to deep pockets and a desire to land a top-tier starter. Surprisingly, the Arizona Diamondbacks, who have been very active this offseason, have reportedly had internal discussions regarding Scherzer and James Shields. 

Scherzer owns a 39-8 record over the past two seasons with the Tigers while posting a 3.02 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 492 strikeouts over 434 2/3 innings. 

Despite the the Yankees opting to pass on signing Scherzer, they did make a move on Monday. They have reportedly agreed to a four-year, $52-million deal with third baseman Chase Headley.