Hey, I tried.  I just don’t want to give 22-24 million per year to a guy that hits 28-32 HRs and on a good year drives in 125 RBIs, and be locked into him for 8 years when at the back end of the contract is more like 18 HRs and 95-105 RBIs.   In Manny’s “upside” year he drives in 150 easy.  Though I like what you say about Texeria – nice guy, good family man – things I can really respect.  However, I’m willing to make the Faustian bargain for the short term.  Look, would I be disappointed with Texeria?  No, he’s a good all around player – those types are always welcome.  I’m looking at contract length.  If I had to give Manny more years like 4, 5 ….and more I’d say forget it.  Which is why the two have to go at the same time.  I can’t have Texeria off the board and then deal with Manny, because Manny will want more years.  One of them has to get done in the next day or two.