The Yanks are interested in free-agent catcher Toby Hall (who was non-tendered by the Dodgers) as Jorge Posada's backup, but a person familiar with Hall's thinking said he'll first pursue a job with a club promising the opportunity for more playing time. Philadelphia, which recently lost Mike Lieberthal to L.A., is considered a strong possibility....The Phillies might sign him and have him share time with Carlos Ruiz behind the plate. Though they say they're content with Wil Nieves and Raul Chavez battling for a job, the Yankees could also have some interest in Rod Barajas.
Source: Rotoworld.com, NY Daily News
Yankee Prospect Tests Positive
Quote:
Yanks pitching prospect Hector Noesi, 19, was suspended 50 games to start next season for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. He made five appearances in the Gulf Coast League last season....Pitchers and catchers are slated to report on Feb. 13, the Yanks announced.
Source: NY Daily News
Yanks Going Gonzo?
Quote:
If the Pittsburgh Pirates wind up trading closer Mike Gonzalez, it appears the most likely destination for the left-hander is the New York Yankees.
Baseball sources indicated Friday that Yankees are willing to part with left-handed hitting outfielder Melky Cabrera straight-up in a trade for Gonzalez. But the Pirates reportedly want a second player included, though the Yankees are highly unlikely to put right-hander Scott Proctor into the deal.
Cabrera, 22, hit .280 with seven homers, 50 RBIs and 12 steals in 130 games as a rookie last season after batting .385 with four homers and 24 RBIs in 31 games with Class AAA Columbus.
The Boston Red Sox also have interest in Gonzalez. The Red Sox reportedly want more than just Gonzalez in any trade for outfielder Coco Crisp and their need for relief help lessened Friday when they signed left-hander J.C. Romero as a free agent and traded with the Los Angeles Angels for right-hander Brendan Donnelly.
