Yankees, Red Sox have interest in Mike Napoli, according to reports
Both the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox have expressed interest in free-agent catcher Mike Napoli, according to separate reports. USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported via Twitter on Monday that the Yankees were intrigued by adding Napoli.
Earlier on Monday, ESPN's Buster Olney reported that the Red Sox had also begun "extensive background work" on potentially adding Napoli as a catcher, first baseman or some combination thereof.
The 31-year-old Napoli is known for his prowess in the batter's box more than his defense behind the plate. In 2011, his breakout season, he hit .320 with 30 homers and a 1.045 OPS. Last year, he hit only .227, but he had 24 homers and an .816 OPS. He and A.J. Pierzynski are the most desirable catchers on the free-agent market this winter.
