Cespedes market buzzing as teams await next move

The San Diego Padres are the latest club linked to the Yoenis Cespedes sweepstakes Wednesday after a local report indicated they're "monitoring the market" for the 30-year-old slugger.

Sources tell Dennis Lin of the San Diego Union-Tribune that although a deal between the pair is unlikely, the Padres are among the growing list of teams eager to see what happens next.

As many as 10 teams have reportedly been in contact with representatives for Cespedes, who became the undisputed top player left in free agency after the Detroit Tigers struck a deal with outfielder Justin Upton on Monday. New York Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said Tuesday that the club remains in discussions to bring Cespedes back, though multiple reports have indicated they're only interested in doing so on a short-term deal.

Even New York Yankees principal owner Hal Steinbrenner couldn't resist a cryptic answer Wednesday when asked about his club's interest in the free-agent outfielder.

"I'm comfortable where payroll is right now, but we’re always looking to improve the club," Steinbrenner told reporters. "You never know with us. We’ve surprised people in the past."

Unlike most of this year's top free agents, Cespedes isn't attached to draft-pick compensation. He's reportedly seeking a six-year deal worth as much as $22 million per season, but his demands appear to be tempered by reports of him being a clubhouse distraction and a heavy-hitting slugger who's reluctant to take walks.

In recent days, allegations have surfaced that Cespedes has been known to smoke cigarettes between innings.

Despite the reports, the market for Cespedes reportedly remains robust. The Mets, Marlins, Orioles, White Sox, Angels, and Braves have all been connected to the Cuban outfielder, who enjoyed a career year in 2015 when he slashed .291/.328/.542 with 35 home runs, 42 doubles, and 6.6 WAR.