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5 players who could help their former teams

Greg M. Cooper / USA TODAY Sports

Who says you can't go home?

Though Robinson Cano did his part in shooting down a report Monday about him wanting to leave Seattle and return to the New York Yankees, the thought of the six-time All-Star returning to the Bronx is alluring.

Coming off a down year, Cano's among several players who could not only use a change in scenery, but might be an intriguing addition for his former club.

Robinson Cano, Yankees

Why he left: The deep-pocketed Yankees were outbid by the Seattle Mariners in December 2013, as Cano took $240 million to head west for the next decade.

Why a reunion could happen: Stephen Drew, Brian Roberts, Jose Pirela, Rob Refsnyder, and Gregorio Petit have combined to hit .235 with 34 home runs and 207 strikeouts since Cano's departure. New York's biggest need on the diamond remains at second base, and adding Cano's middle-of-the-order bat makes the team better in the short term.

Why it won't happen: The once free-spending Yankees are now trying to cut costs while getting younger. Unless the Mariners are willing to eat a major chunk of the money owed, don't expect Cano back in pinstripes, no matter how good it would look.

Nick Markakis, Orioles

Why he left: It seemed automatic that Nick Markakis would extend his stay with the Baltimore Orioles, but he surprisingly agreed to a four-year, $44-million deal with the Atlanta Braves last winter. Markakis admitted he was angered when contract talks broke down due to concern over an impending neck surgery.

Why a reunion could happen: The Braves slapped a "for sale" sign in front of Turner Field, and have been unloading veteran after veteran. Parting with the 32-year-old makes sense as Atlanta continues to cut costs, while the Orioles could address their desperate need in the corner outfield by reuniting with the two-time Gold Glove winner.

Why it won't happen: Despite the mass exodus in Atlanta, Braves GM John Coppolella said the team isn't trying to tank, and could keep Markakis around. Orioles GM Dan Duquette likely didn't appreciate Markakis burning bridges on the way out of town, and might not welcome him back to Maryland.

Justin Upton, Diamondbacks

Why he left: The Arizona Diamondbacks signaled the rebuild was underway in January 2013 by parting ways with All-Star outfielder Justin Upton. Upton was the centerpiece of a seven-player deal that reunited him with his brother B.J. in Atlanta.

Why a reunion could happen: Arizona is poised to move forward in its rebuild and Upton would complement a solid young core of outfielders. GM Dave Stewart has been aggressive during his early tenure, and bringing back Upton at least merits some consideration. The 28-year-old would upgrade the team's corner outfield and middle of the order, complementing one of the National League's best offenses.

Why it won't happen: The Diamondbacks will likely focus their resources on improving the pitching staff, while letting Yasmany Tomas or Ender Inciarte fight it out for the third outfield spot. It's also unlikely they'll spend on one player the resources Upton would command.

Zack Greinke, Royals

Why he left: Unmotivated to pitch for a rebuilding team, Zack Greinke requested the Kansas City Royals trade him in December 2010. Royals GM Dayton Moore packaged him to the Milwaukee Brewers in a six-player deal, with Lorenzo Cain and Alcides Escobar highlighting the return.

Why a reunion could happen: Far from the organization Greinke left, the Royals are the reigning World Series champs and could use some of the additional postseason revenue to land a legit ace, especially with the expected departure of Johnny Cueto. Adding Greinke to the rotation would significantly bolster the Royals' chances of winning a second consecutive title.

Why it won't happen: Moore is highly unlikely to stray from what made the team successful, and will avoid handing out a long-term, high-priced contract to a free agent in his 30s. Greinke's also expected to land in a bigger market than Kansas City.

Andrew Cashner, Cubs

Why he left: Chicago Cubs GM Jed Hoyer shipped former first-round pick Andrew Cashner to the San Diego Padres in 2012 in a four-player deal that brought first baseman Anthony Rizzo to the Windy City.

Why a reunion could happen: Both teams matchup as solid trade partners, as the Cubs are prioritizing pitching, while the Padres need plenty of help in the infield. Starlin Castro has long been rumored to be on his way out of Chicago, and could be used as a starting point in trade talks.

Why it won't happen: The Cubs are poised to make a major splash in the free-agent market and are likely setting their sights much higher than Cashner. The 29-year-old is also only under contract through next season, and Chicago would likely want an arm with more control should it give up one of its prized young players.

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