The Yankees probably cannot get the best third baseman available in the market, San Diego’s Chase Headley, because Alex Rodriguez is due back in September and – even more vital – is signed through 2017.

An official with knowledge of Headley’s market said he “did not think the Yankees will be a fit.” That is because well before A-Rod fractured a bone in his left hand Tuesday night, the Padres were discussing Headley with multiple suitors. And those suitors are all willing to purchase Headley as a 28-year-old who will – now this is important – play third base and is not a free agent until after the 2015 season.

Third base is a difficult position to fill and, thus, there is a premium on it in the trade market. But the Yanks need a third baseman only until A-Rod heals. In fact, they might need just a half of a third baseman because they can play Eric Chavez semi-regularly, especially against most righties. Also, with Rodriguez signed for five more years after this season, the Yanks would not be willing to buy Headley as exclusively a third baseman. For the Yanks, he would have to play third, left, first and DH.

Teams with interest such as the A’s and Dodgers would be viewing Headley as a long-term solution at third and be willing to offer prospects commensurate with that.