Report: Yankees expressing serious interest in Britton

The New York Yankees missed out on acquiring Manny Machado, but that apparently hasn't dissuaded them from pursuing the Baltimore Orioles' second-biggest trade chip.

The Yankees have reportedly expressed serious interest in left-handed reliever Zach Britton, major-league sources told Andy Martino of SNY.

Britton has generated significant interest over the last several weeks, especially with contenders. The Houston Astros and Chicago Cubs are considered to be strongly pursuing the two-time All-Star, while the Boston Red Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Atlanta Braves have also been linked to Britton.

The Orioles are reportedly hoping to trade Britton as soon as possible while his stock is high. After missing the first two-and-a-half months of the season following Achilles surgery, the reliever has returned to his dominant form on the mound. Britton hasn't allowed a run in seven appearances this month, while surrendering just three hits.

Meanwhile, New York's bullpen has been excellent this season, and especially of late, with its relievers combining for the lowest ERA in the majors over the last 30 days.