Let’s start with multiple disclaimers. The trade scenario I am about to discuss is no more than a concept and, as far as I know, it is not currently under serious discussion. The teams kicked around the idea, according to a major-league source, but even if they could agree on the particulars – which is doubtful — the deal remains highly unlikely to happen.



All that said, here’s the scenario:



— The New York Yankees acquire right-hander Jake Odorizzi from the Tampa Bay Rays for mid-level prospects.



— The Yankees then package Odorizzi with outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury and a prospect for Baltimore Orioles infielder Manny Machado.



— The prospect going to the Orioles would be a good one, most likely third baseman Miguel Andujar. And the Yankees would pay approximately half of the $68.4 million remaining in the final three years on Ellsbury’s deal.



That is a lot to digest. And, again, this is...