Skip to content

Cano's agent denies he wants out of Seattle

Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The agent for Robinson Cano shot down a report claiming the second baseman is unhappy in Seattle and wants to return to the New York Yankees, Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto said Monday.

A source close to Cano reportedly told John Harper of the New York Daily News that the six-time All-Star wants out of Seattle just two seasons into the 10-year, $240-million deal he signed in 2013. The report added that Cano would "love" to return to New York, where he starred for nine seasons and won a World Series title in 2009.

Speaking to reporters following the Mariners' acquisition of catcher Chris Iannetta, Dipoto said one of Cano's agents, Brodie Van Wagenen, called him Monday morning to tell him the report didn't come from his client.

"Quite the opposite," Dipoto said when asked whether Cano was unhappy with the club, adding that the 33-year-old star has been upbeat in conversations with the team this offseason, and is recovering well from hernia surgery.

"He reached out to let me know that did not come from Robbie and that's not at all reflective of he felt," said Dipoto. "Shortly after the season ended, I sat down with Robinson in my office for two hours and we had a great talk and I think we left with a very clear understanding of who one another might be."

Shortly after the report surfaced, Cano tweeted a workout video with the caption: "Getting ready for next season @Mariners."

Monday's report was the latest blow to Cano's battered reputation in Seattle.

He was accused last week by former major leaguer and coach Andy Van Slyke that he played "the worst defense (he's) ever seen at second base," and cost several coaches their jobs because of his attitude. Van Slyke, a former All-Star himself, served as the Mariners' first base coach the past two seasons.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox