That might have been an option prior to A-Rod opting out of his clause (assuming an extension could be worked out), but I think it's something that would have been way too complicated. A-Rod could just elect to opt out if he didn't like the team he was going to be traded to. In other words, A-Rod controls his destination by opting out. If the Yankees did find a suitor to A-Rod's liking, how difficult would it be to work out a trade between two teams that both teams would be happy with, and could an extension be worked out that would make A-Rod happy? For example, knowing A-Rod is pretty much leaving, what would be a fair offer to guarantee you get him? And would it satisfy the Yankees enough? he had a NTC too, right? that would have further complicated things