So far, I like Cashman’s strategy here…

Instead of fiddleing around with Sabathia and offering a bit more than what Milwaukee supposedly offered (as Milwaukee’s GM suggested they should have done instead of “overbidding”), the Yanks went above Santana’s deal last year – which is the benchmark anyway. This allows them to flush out the situation more quickly by making Anaheim et al have to beat or come close to their offer.

I agree with Russ on Burnett in that the Yanks have mentioned him too often and for too long for it to only be a motivator for Sabathia/Peavy. I think the Yanks want Sabathia and either Burnett or Lowe. And I believe they prefer Burnett. Either way, both Lowe and Burnett have proved they can be successful in the AL East.

Pettitte’s doesn’t want a pay cut, and Mussina is going to have a decision on his future by week’s end.

Francessa interviewed Nick Swisher yestersay on The Fan. Nick is very excited to be a Yankee and said all the right things: “Yankee Tradition”; ”Greatest Baseball team in the world”. Nick proclaimed that his best position is first base and that he is working harder than ever to avoid a repeat of last year. The Yanks may catch lightening in a bottle with this guy.   I think he’ll be the first baseman – this certainly hurt Texeira’s market.

I would still like to see the Yanks move Cano, sign Hudson, and find a better option for CF.