Brian Cashman optimistic a deal can get done
Brian Cashman talking with the media during batting practice before the game against the Detroit Tigers during Game 4 of the American League Championship Series at Comerica Park. (Oct. 17, 2012) Credit: Newsday/J. Conrad Williams, Jr.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Two days of the winter meetings has Brian Cashman feeling optimistic he'll leave with a new player.
"The time is ripe for us to be doing something," Cashman said. "I can't predict that I'll get something done but there's a lot of players in the marketplace that see the voids we have and they want to play here. It's just about matching up."
The general manager cautioned that he's felt that way before and came away empty.
"I think we'll be in position when we leave here with doing something but that doesn't mean we will,'' he said.
Among the player agents Cashman confirmed having had discussions with are those representing Kevin Youkilis, A.J. Pierzynski, Eric Chavez, Raul Ibañez, and Ichiro Suzuki.
Cashman said getting a corner outfielder and an infielder for the left side are priorities. The Yankees are very interested in outfielder Scott Hairston and Youkilis is an intriguing option at third. Free-agent outfielder Cody Ross has been discussed, as well.
As for Russell Martin's departure creating a catching void, Cashman said don't expect much to develop there from the outside.
"I doubt I can upgrade on what I have catchingwise because the defense is an important aspect for us, the bats a secondary aspect," Cashman said. "But we'll keep looking at it."
Girardi: Rotation, pen set
Joe Girardi said he is comfortable with his rotation and bullpen. "I feel good about our rotation," Girardi said, adding he recently saw CC Sabathia, who had surgery to remove a bone spur Oct. 26, and that the lefthander was doing well.
