The Daily Yankeeland

If a "gun to the head" decision had to be made today, it looks like Andy Pettitte would choose retirement. In his conference call yesterday, Jorge Posada mentioned that he has been speaking with Pettitte once a week and got the impression that Pettitte was indeed leaning towards hanging it up. Pettitte's father Tom, has further confirmed that evaluation.

“He’s so torn right now,” Tom Pettitte said. “Everybody knows that he was done last year and he didn’t want to play because he wanted to be with his kids. That’s what this is all about. He’s not looking for more money or anything.”

“When I talk to him, I don’t even ask him about baseball,” Tom Pettitte said. “When he’s with me, he’s looking for a place to release. He doesn’t want to talk about baseball.”

“I guess if he hadn’t had as much success as he’s had or accomplished as much as he’s accomplished, I don’t know, it might be different,” Tom Pettitte said. “He’s pretty much accomplished everything he wanted to.”

Source

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A source close to the Johan Santana situation says that neither the Red Sox or Yankees current offers are good enough to land the lefty. The Twins more "ready for prime time" impact players, rather than prospects that will still take more time. The Yankees offer is thought to be Ian Kennedy, Melky Cabrera, and a prospect. Source

* * *

The Denver Post is reporting that the Yankees are close to signing Mark Loretta as a utility infielder. The Rockies were hoping to ink Loretta to a deal as their starting 2nd Baseman. Source

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Hot Stove Update

Couple of reported contract agreements tonight...

We reported earlier today that the Rockies were close to bringing back Yorvit Torrealba and now its official. The 2 sides have agreed to a 2 year deal , $7 million deal with a mutual option for 2010. Source

The Rays and Troy Percival have apparently agreed to terms on a 2 year deal, $8 million deal. Incentives could boost the total to 10 mill. Source

The Brewers are close to signing free agent reliever David Riske. The right-hander could be used to close, but most likely will remain a set up man. Source

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HBO to Film Barroid Biopic

HBO has acquired the film rights to the book, "Game of Shadows: Barry Bonds, BALCO and the Steroids Scandal That Rocked Professional Sports", with veteran director/writer Ron Shelton picked to helm the project.

Shelton will write the screenplay along with John Norville, who worked on "Tin Cup" with him.

The only question remains, will several actors be needed to show the varying sizes of Barry Bonds' head? Source

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Posada Officially Back

Um, Jorge too. 2 1/2 weeks after reaching agreement with free agent Jorge Posada, the Yankees finally made it official today. The deal keeps Posada in Pinstripes thru 2011.

Posada is one of only eight catchers in Major League history to record at least 20 home runs in seven or more seasons, joining Mike Piazza (11), Johnny Bench (11), Yogi Berra (10), Gary Carter (9), Carlton Fisk (8), Lance Parrish (7) and Roy Campanella (7). He and Ivan Rodriguez are the only two catchers in Major League history to record two seasons of 40 or more doubles. Source

UPDATE - From Peter Abraham

(Posada) Held a conference call today to officially announce new contract.

Where it got interesting was when he said the Yankees should trade for Johan Santana because they need a No. 1. Posada also said he has been calling Andy Pettitte once a week.

He said Pettitte is leaning to retirement but he hopes that will change given the direction of the team.

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Thursday Hot Stove

As reported here yesterday, the Rays and Twins completed a 6 player deal with Delmon Young and Matt Garza being the primary players swapping uni's. One revision was made to the original deal, however, when medical reports on Juan Rincon's elbow were not to the Rays' liking. So Rincon was yanked from the deal, and highly rated relief prospect Eduardo Morlan.

* * *

The Tigers have reported made a multi-year offer to free agent reliever LaTroy Hawkins. The 34-yr old would make up for the loss of Joel Zumaya. Source

* * *

The Rays are reportedly even closer to signing veteran closer Troy Percival to a mulit-year deal. Percival sat out the 2006 season before appearing in 34 games for the St. Louis Cardinals this past season. Source

* * *

The Pirates are open to trading Matt Morris, who they foolishly signed to a 2-yr deal prior to this past season. Morris is set to make $9.5 million this year, which means the Pirates will either not get much in return or will have to eat the bulk of the salary. The Pirates have also gotten trade inquires from the Cardinals concerning shortstop Jack Wilson. Source

* * *

The Rockies thought they had lost free agent catcher Yorvit Torrealba to the Mets, but it looks like the two sides have now agreed to terms. Torrealba completed the first part of a required physical. Source

* * *

Tony LaRussa pleaded guilty to DUI charges stemming from an arrest in Florida during spring training. He'll receive 6 months probation that includes a suspended license and community service. Source

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Everybody Wants to Rule V the World

The major league Rule V draft kicks off a week today and Baseball America has a good preview of past and present. The latest collective CBA gave teams an added year to protect their young players before they have to be added to the 40-man roster.

Most Rule V drafts don't amount to much- the Yankees grabbed Josh Phelps last year. But the Reds picked up Josh Hamilton and the Royals have their closer in Joakim Soria. And yes, Johan Santana was once a Rule V pick.

Rules for Rule V - At the major league level, teams can select players off the list of available Triple-A players. The cost is $50,000 each and the player selected must remain on the big league roster all season. If a team gives the heave ho, as the Yankees did with Phelps, the original team can have the player back for 25 grand.

The minor league draft is split into 2 phases, one for Triple-A players and another for Double-A. In each case, teams draft one level below the minor league level. The Triple-A phase players cost 12K, while the Double-A phase goes for $4,000 each. It's a good chance to take a player that might pan out for you, especially since you don't have to worry about keeping a player at a particular level.

Baseball America also takes a look at some of the players that could be selected this year and have an impact.

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Breaking News: Twins-Rays swing 6 Player Deal

The Minneapolis Star Tribune is reporting that the Rays and Twins have reached agreement on a 6 player deal that would send outfielder Delmon Young to Minny and pitcher Matt Garza to Tampa.

Also going to Tampa would be pitcher Juan Rincon and shortstop Jason Barrett. Shortstop Brendan Harris and outfielder Jason Pridie will be headed to Minnesota.

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2008 Free Agents

Courtesy of ESPN.com

Player	Age	Status	Old Team
Jeremy Affeldt, RP	28	Free Agent	Colorado
Antonio Alfonseca, RP	35	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Sandy Alomar Jr., C	41	Free Agent	NY Mets
Tony Armas, SP	29	Free Agent	Pittsburgh
Paul Bako, C	35	Free Agent	Baltimore
Rod Barajas, C	32	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Michael Barrett, C	31	Free Agent (A)	San Diego
Tony Batista, 1B	33	Free Agent	Washington
Armando Benitez, RP	35	Free Agent	Florida
Gary Bennett, C	35	Free Agent	St. Louis
Kris Benson, SP	33	Free Agent	Baltimore
Barry Bonds, LF	43	Free Agent (A)	San Francisco
Aaron Boone, 1B	34	Free Agent	Florida
Milton Bradley, LF	29	Free Agent (A)	San Diego
Russell Branyan, 3B	31	Free Agent	St. Louis
Miguel Cairo, 1B	33	Free Agent	St. Louis
Mike Cameron, CF	34	Free Agent (B)	San Diego
Shawn Camp, RP	32	Free Agent	Tampa Bay
Sean Casey, 1B	33	Free Agent (B)	Detroit
Kevin Cash, C	29	Free Agent	Boston
Shawn Chacon, RP	29	Free Agent	Pittsburgh
Jeff Cirillo, 3B	38	Free Agent	Arizona
Tony Clark, 1B	35	Free Agent	Arizona
Roger Clemens, SP	45	Free Agent	NY Yankees
Matt Clement, SP	33	Free Agent	Boston
Bartolo Colon, SP	34	Free Agent	LA Angels
Jeff DaVanon, CF	33	Free Agent	Oakland
Elmer Dessens, SP	36	Free Agent	Colorado
Mike DiFelice, C	38	Free Agent	NY Mets
Octavio Dotel, RP	34	Free Agent	Atlanta
David Eckstein, SS	32	Free Agent (B)	St. Louis
Darin Erstad, CF	33	Free Agent	Chicago Sox
Sal Fasano, C	36	Free Agent	Toronto
Pedro Feliz, 3B	32	Free Agent (B)	San Francisco
Robert Fick, 1B	33	Free Agent	Washington
Cliff Floyd, RF	34	Free Agent	Chicago Cubs
Josh Fogg, SP	30	Free Agent	Colorado
Keith Foulke, RP	35	Free Agent	Cleveland
Julio Franco, 1B	49	Free Agent	Atlanta
Kosuke Fukudome, OF	30	Free Agent	Japan
Kazuo Fukumori, RP	31	Free Agent	Japan
Eric Gagne, RP	31	Free Agent (B)	Boston
Freddy Garcia, SP	31	Free Agent (B)	Philadelphia
Marcus Giles, 2B	29	Free Agent	San Diego
Chris Gomez, 3B	36	Free Agent	Cleveland
Luis Gonzalez, LF	40	Free Agent (B)	LA Dodgers
Tony Graffanino, 2B	35	Free Agent (B)	Milwaukee
Shawn Green, RF	35	Free Agent (B)	NY Mets
Eddie Guardado, RP	37	Free Agent	Cincinnati
Jose Guillen, RF	31	Free Agent	Seattle
Jerry Hairston Jr., CF	31	Free Agent	Texas
LaTroy Hawkins, RP	34	Free Agent	Colorado
Matt Herges, RP	37	Free Agent	Colorado
Livan Hernandez, SP	32	Free Agent (B)	Arizona
Eric Hinske, 1B	30	Free Agent	Boston
Tadahito Iguchi, 2B	32	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Hitoki Iwase, RP	33	Free Agent	Japan
Geoff Jenkins, LF	33	Free Agent	Milwaukee
Jason Jennings, SP	29	Free Agent	Houston
D'Angelo Jimenez, 2B	29	Free Agent	Washington
Andruw Jones, CF	30	Free Agent (B)	Atlanta
Jorge Julio, RP	28	Free Agent (B)	Colorado
Bobby Kielty, RF	31	Free Agent	Boston
Byung-Hyun Kim, SP	28	Free Agent	Florida
Ray King, RP	33	Free Agent	Milwaukee
Ryan Klesko, 1B	36	Free Agent	San Francisco
Corey Koskie, 3B	34	Free Agent	Milwaukee
Hiroki Kuroda, SP	32	Free Agent	Japan
Mike Lamb, 3B	32	Free Agent	Houston
Player	Age	Status	Old Team
Jon Lieber, SP	37	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Mike Lieberthal, C	35	Free Agent	LA Dodgers
Paul Lo Duca, C	35	Free Agent (B)	NY Mets
Kenny Lofton, CF	40	Free Agent (B)	Cleveland
Kyle Lohse, SP	29	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Rodrigo Lopez, SP	31	Free Agent	Colorado
Mark Loretta, SS	36	Free Agent (B)	Houston
Rob Mackowiak, LF	31	Free Agent	San Diego
Yukinaga Maeda, RP	37	Free Agent	Japan
Ron Mahay, RP	36	Free Agent (B)	Atlanta
Ramon Martinez, 2B	35	Free Agent	LA Dodgers
Mike Matheny, C	37	Free Agent	San Francisco
Kazuo Matsui, 2B	32	Free Agent	Colorado
Jose Mesa, RP	41	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Doug Mientkiewicz, 1B	33	Free Agent	NY Yankees
Damian Miller, C	38	Free Agent	Milwaukee
Trever Miller, RP	34	Free Agent	Houston
Eric Milton, SP	32	Free Agent	Cincinnati
Doug Mirabelli, C	37	Free Agent	Boston
Brian Moehler, RP	35	Free Agent	Houston
Jose Molina, C	32	Free Agent	NY Yankees
Mike Myers, RP	38	Free Agent	Chicago Sox
Trot Nixon, RF	33	Free Agent	Cleveland
Abraham Nunez, 3B	31	Free Agent	Philadelphia
Russ Ortiz, SP	33	Free Agent	San Francisco
Orlando Palmeiro, LF	38	Free Agent	Houston
Corey Patterson, CF	28	Free Agent	Baltimore
Josh Paul, C	32	Free Agent	Tampa Bay
Troy Percival, RP	38	Free Agent (B)	St. Louis
Neifi Perez, SS	34	Free Agent	Detroit
Odalis Perez, SP	30	Free Agent	Kansas City
Andy Pettitte, SP	35	Free Agent (A)	NY Yankees
Mike Piazza, DH	39	Free Agent (B)	Oakland
Mark Redman, SP	33	Free Agent	Colorado
Chris Reitsma, RP	29	Free Agent	Seattle
Arthur Rhodes, RP	38	Free Agent	Seattle
David Riske, RP	31	Free Agent (B)	Kansas City
Alex Rodriguez, 3B	32	Free Agent (A)	NY Yankees
Kenny Rogers, SP	43	Free Agent (B)	Detroit
Aaron Rowand, CF	30	Free Agent (A)	Philadelphia
Reggie Sanders, RF	39	Free Agent	Kansas City
Rudy Seanez, RP	39	Free Agent	LA Dodgers
Aaron Sele, RP	37	Free Agent	NY Mets
Carlos Silva, SP	28	Free Agent	Minnesota
Sammy Sosa, DH	39	Free Agent	Texas
Shannon Stewart, LF	33	Free Agent (B)	Oakland
Kelly Stinnett, C	37	Free Agent	St. Louis
Mark Sweeney, 1B	38	Free Agent	LA Dodgers
Mike Sweeney, DH	34	Free Agent	Kansas City
John Thomson, SP	34	Free Agent	Kansas City
Mike Timlin, RP	41	Free Agent (B)	Boston
Brett Tomko, SP	34	Free Agent	San Diego
Yorvit Torrealba, C	29	Free Agent (B)	Colorado
Steve Trachsel, SP	37	Free Agent	Baltimore
Jose Valentin, 2B	38	Free Agent	NY Mets
Jorge Velandia, SS	32	Free Agent	Tampa Bay
Ron Villone, RP	37	Free Agent	NY Yankees
Luis Vizcaino, RP	33	Free Agent (B)	NY Yankees
Jeff Weaver, SP	31	Free Agent	Seattle
David Wells, SP	44	Free Agent	LA Dodgers
Kip Wells, SP	30	Free Agent	St. Louis
Rondell White, LF	35	Free Agent	Minnesota
Bob Wickman, RP	38	Free Agent	Arizona
Brad Wilkerson, 1B	30	Free Agent	Texas
Preston Wilson, RF	33	Free Agent	St. Louis
Randy Wolf, SP	31	Free Agent	LA Dodgers
Chris Woodward, 3B	31	Free Agent	Atlanta
Yasuhiko Yabuta, RP	34	Free Agent	Japan

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This Week in the NFL - week 13

The Thursday night games are upon us. A great match up this week that most won't see due to the NFL Network.

Thursday

Packers +7 at Cowboys
We really aren't sure who is going to win this one, but we think it will be close. Would love to see the Favres win it though.

Sunday

Bears +1.5 vs. Giants
Big Blue travels to Chicago and we're concerned. Eli just looked like a boy among men and we've seen how the Giants have played in the 2nd half of the season under Coughlin. With the RB situation still up in the air this week, we're going to have to go with the home team.

Jets +1 at Dolphins
Boy this could be ugly. Jets have 2 wins, the fish have zip. No team wants to be the one to give the Dolphins their first win. Jets should survive.

Falcons over the Rams
No line on this game, as the QB sitch for both teams is in the air. Not like anyone cares.

Bills +5.5 at Redskins
As we said the other day, we are done with the Bills bandwagon, but they shouldn't be nearly a TD underdog to a crappy Redskins team. Especially one that is in mourning at the moment.

Vikings -3.5 vs. Lions
We're not fooled by this Vikings team win over the Giants. The Lions have lost 3 straight and generally suck on the road. The difference here is that the Vikings will be able to run the ball down the Lions' throats.

Texas +3.5 at Titans
Titans will win this one, but it should be a close one. Rob Bironas game winning FG, perhaps?

Jags +6.5 at Colts
The Colts are still reeling from injuries and the Jags are coming on strong. Could win this game outright.

Chargers +5.5 at Chiefs
The Chiefs couldn't even get it done against the Raiders.

Seahawks +3 at Eagles
Why exactly is Philly favored? Just because they played over their heads against the Pats?

Panthers -3 vs. 49ers
Flip a coin. The Panthers 'D' should be able to shut down Frank Gore and that will be the difference.

Browns +1 at Cardinals
The 49ers exploited the Cards 'D', so Derek Anderson definitely will.

Broncos -3.5 at Raiders
The Broncos are reeling after blowing a 14 point lead to the Bears, but this Raiders team is flat out bad.

Bucs +3 at Saints
Sticking our necks out here since the Bucs only scored 19 against the Skins. Which Saints team will show? We're counting on the Bucs defense to make it close.

Steelers -7 vs. Bengals
A bad loss to the Jets on the road. A rainy/muddy stinkfest win against the Dolphins. Surely the Steelers are ready to explode.

Patriots -20.5 at Ravens
We refused to give 24 points against the Eagles last week, but this Ravens team is well below the Eagles in talent and desire. A MNF disaster.

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Wednesday Hot Stove

The Orioles continue to shop Erik Bedard, with the Dodgers and Mets showing a lot of interest, but the team hasn't decided if they really want to move their best pitcher. The O's have denied having any interest in free agent outfielder Jose Guillen.

Melvin Mora is working in the outfield while playing winter league ball. The O's may move Miguel Tejada to 3rd next season, if they decide to hold on to him. Source

The Rays are sending Rocco Baldelli for extensive tests to determine if is continual hamstring problems are being caused by an underlying problem. It's not the 1st time a team has had an issue like this. The Mets actually re-taught Jose Reyes how to run to help prevent hamstring injuries. Source

The Padres have had extensive talks with free agent outfielder Geoff Jenkins, who has indicated he would like play for them. Source

The Rockies have reached the conclusion that they will most likely not be able to re-sign left-hander Jeremy Affeldt. Amazing how much attention there is for mediocre lefties. Source

According to Newsday, the Mets have set their sites on the A's Danny Haren and Joe Blanton. It's not the 1st time the Mets have tried to acquire one of the right-handers. Source

It's not looking like Aaron Rowand will be returning to his original team. The White Sox and Rowand were on completely different pages in their contract discussions. Source

HA - the Twins have signed utility man Howie Clark to a minor league deal. Who cares? A-Rod has to know what town to yell "HA" in.

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The Daily Yankeeland

Negotiations continue with the Minnesota Twins for the services of Johan Santana. There's even speculation that Joe Nathan could be included in a blockbuster deal. Like Santana, Nathan's contract is up after the 2008 season. According to the Star-Ledger, two players who won't be involved in a deal for Santana are Joba Chamberlain and Robinson Cano.

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We highly respect Ken Rosenthal's opinion, but we vehemently disagree with his assessment that the Yankees will move Johnny Damon back to centerfield if Melky Cabrera is dealt. While we don't necessarily agree with trying to give a long term deal to Aaron Rowand, we're sure the Yankees will deal for a younger, less beat up, centerfielder. K-Ros also thinks the Yankees could deal Melky even if he's not included in the Santana deal. That really doesn't make sense unless they really filled a big hole (bullpen set up) in doing so.

We do like this assessment though...

The Yankees will not go beyond a certain financial threshold with free-agent relievers when they can fill certain roles from within, sources say. The team, for example, could pass on left-hander Ron Mahay, if his price — as expected — rises above $12 million over three years, the amount the Phillies awarded J.C. Romero. Sean Henn, Kei Igawa and Chase Wright are among the Yankees' internal options from the left side. Jose Veras, pitching well in the Dominican winter league, is among the right-handed possibilities, along with Ross Ohlendorf, Chris Britton, Brian Bruney and Edwar Ramirez . . .

We will say though that we don't want Ron Mahay even if he only costs a buck. K-Ros also talked about the latest scouting reviews of Austin Jackson.

Scouts offer mixed reviews on Yankees minor-league outfielder Austin Jackson, who could be part of the team's offer for Santana. Jackson, who turns 21 on Feb. 1, put up monster numbers in the Class A Florida State League last season before getting promoted to Class AA. Georgia Tech recruited him to play point guard before the Yankees drafted him in the eighth round and signed him for $800,000 in 2005. Some scouts say he is still more of an athlete than a baseball player, but others believe that he eventually could develop into a star.

* * *

Thanks to Peter Abraham for pointing this link out. Johnny Damon recently made a trip to Thailand, the ancestry of his mother. While he was there, he made trips to Thai orphanages as part of a U.S. Embassy sponsored tour. Source

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Caribbean Baseball

We've already told you the finalized stats for the Yankees' prospects in Arizona and Hawaii, but there are a number of players still going at in the Caribbean and Latin American countries.

Wilson Betemit is playing for the Leones Lions) del Escogido. He's hitting .313-2-7 in 16 at-bats. The biggest concern surrounding Betemit continues in the Dominican- 13 strikeouts. His up side continues to be his OPS - .936.

Jose Veras is also a member of the Leones and has appeared in 5 games. Veras has not allowed a run in 4.2 innings, with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. He's also notched a save and a hold.

Edwar Ramirez is working out the pen for the Tigres (Tigers) del Licey. K-Ram has allowed 1 run in 2 innings pitched, with 3 walks and 2 strikeouts.

Minor league pitcher Tim Lavigne, who spent most of the season at Trenton has a 0.81 ERA for the Algodoneros de Guasave team in the Mexican Pacific League. Lavigne has 7 saves in 18 appearance, with 11 BB/13K in 22.1 innings.

Top prospect Jose Tabata is on his hometown team, Caribes (Caribbeans) de Anzoategui of the Venezuelan League, but is yet to play due to injury.

Justin Pope, who split time between Trenton and Scranton in '07, is throwing for the Bravos (Braves) de Margarita. He's 2-0 and has a 0.83 ERA in 21.1 innings. He's walked just 4 and held opponents to a .234 average.

Alberto Gonzalez, who got a cup of coffee with the big club in September, is also on the Margarita squad. In 12 games, Gonzalez is hitting .312 with a home run and 7 RBI.

Catcher Francisco Cervelli, who was recently added to the Yankees 40-man roster, is spending his winter for the Cardenales (Cardinals) de Lara. He's 4-17 (.235) with 8 walks.

Outfielder Edwar Gonzalez, a Tampa outfielder, is also on the Lara squad. He's hitting .278-1-7 in 54 ABs.

Marcos Vechionacci is enjoying a good winter season for the Navegantes (Seafarers) del Magallanes. The 21-yr old is hitting .307-3-12 in 88 ABs, with 5 doubles and 2 triples.

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MLB was Warned About 'roids

Major League Baseball, and Bud Selig in particular, would have you think that the powers that be knew nothing about performance enhancing steroids until 1999 or 2000. Larry Starr, a former trainer for the Marlins and Reds, says otherwise.

"Here's the thing that really bothers me," Starr said in a recent interview with Florida Today. "They sit there, meaning the commissioner's office, Bud Selig and that group, and the players' association, Don Fehr and that group . . . they sit there and say, 'Well, now that we know that this happened we're going to do something about it."

"I have notes from the Winter Meetings where the owners group and the players' association sat in meetings with the team physicians and team trainers. I was there. And team physicians stood up and said, 'Look, we need to do something about this. We've got a problem here if we don't do something about it.' That was in 1988."

Starr was interviewed on 4 separate occasions by George Mitchell's panel investigating steroid use. Starr has said that members of that 1997 Marlins team used steroids. And in case you are wondering, yes, Gary Sheffield was on that squad.

Starr did not name names, but feels steroid use has been rampant.

"By high percentage, meaning 30 to 40 percent of the team might have been using," Starr said. "(But) some teams had maybe only one or two."

Starr remembers one player who ended the season in 1989 weighing 171 pounds. In the spring, the same player reported to camp weighing 205, and his body fat had actually dropped from eight percent to 5.8. That was one of the moments that frightened him the most -- a player who was obviously loaded with performance enhancers to a dangerous point.

Now we'll see where Mitchell's investigation and MLB goes from here. It's time to admit this is much bigger than Barry Bonds or at least Barry Bonds' head.

Source

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NFL Recap - Week 12

The NFL family will obviously be reeling for some time over Sean Taylor's death. It's bad enough when a player is killed in a car or plane crash, but when he's murdered in cold blood, it's even worse. Definitely makes me forget just how bad Eli Manning was this weekend or the fact that the Pats nearly lost.

All that being said, lets take a quick look at the games of week 12.

Vikings +7.5 at Giants
We're beginning to think that Eli should rearrange his first name to "Lie" as in its a lie to say he'll become a great QB. We don't need to dissect this game any more, Manning's stats speak for themselves. On the up side, we were RIGHT

Bills +8 at Jaguars
Okay, after being drubbed 2 straight weeks, we are officially off the Bills bandwagon. Which means they will probably cover next week. Right now the Jags are the 2nd best team in the AFC. WRONG

Browns -3.5 vs. Texans
A little early difficulty, but Derek Anderson continues to have a Pro Bowl season. RIGHT

Saints -2.5 at Panthers
As it turned out David Carr started for the Panthers, which made us even more confident in our pick. RIGHT

Raiders +5 vs. Chiefs
Was a tight game as expected and the Raiders won as we expected. RIGHT

Seahawks -3 at Rams
Thanks to some early sloppy play by the the Seahawks, we were worried about this one for a while. But then Marc Bulger got hurt and Gus Frerotte came in. 'Nuff said. RIGHT

Titans -1.5 at Bengals
We flip-flopped and are now kicking ourselves. Had we stayed with our original instincts, we would have been right. Then again, the Titans probably would have won. WRONG

Bucs -3.5 vs Redskins
A dull one indeed. Things will be even harder for the Skins now, who will have football as the last thing on their mind. RIGHT

Cardinals -10.5 vs. 49ers
We told you we hate big point spreads, especially when Kurt Warner is involved. This one bit us on the butt. WRONG

Bears -2 vs. Broncos
Thanks to Devon Hester and a rally from 14 down, we got this one RIGHT. This Broncos team is really hard to figure, though Mike Shanahan is beginning to look more and more like George Hamilton.

Chargers -8.5 vs. Ravens
We thought the bolts would bounce back and indeed they did. This Ravens team is just plain awful. RIGHT

Eagles +24 vs. Patriots
There was no way we were laying points with this one. We certainly didn't expect the Eagles to be leading in the 4th. But either way we were RIGHT.

Steelers +16 vs. Dolphins
Rain, mud, no offense, and another big spread bites the dust. WRONG

With our 2-1 on Thanksgiving day, that put us at 11-5 for the week. NICE!

Overall
95-78-6

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Tuesday Hot Stove

While the Yankees have admitted to talks with the Twins about Johan Santana, they are clearly not the only team involved. Across town though, the Mets have said they will not part with Carlos Beltran, Jose Reyes, or David Wright to land the masterful left-hander. Reyes and Wright we can understand, but Beltran? If they were able to unload his contract it would probably be one of the best things they could do. Source

The Yankees meantime have reached out to free agent reliever David Riske. Though he has had moments of "very goodness", the prospect of signing him doesn't make us do cartwheels. The Brewers have reportedly already made an offer. Source

Meanwhile Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star Tribune believes that the Twins may not be able to get full value for Santana, for a number of reasons.

Santana, yes, but for only one season, only about 34 starts. That, plus the exclusive right to pay him that bulky contract extension.

His value isn't what it was after 2006. By his enormous standards, he had a substandard 2007 season, going 15-13 with a 3.33 ERA. He gave up 33 home runs, nine more than his previous career high, and scouts have mentioned subtle warning signs, such as his reluctance to throw his slider.

In any Santana trade, the Twins might want an established star, such as Robinson Cano or Jose Reyes, along with multiple prospects. But that is a pipe dream.

The game has changed. Teams are far more reluctant to part with young, established stars.

And for all his credentials, Santana isn't even the most coveted player on the trade market. That would be Marlins third baseman Miguel Cabrera.

Asked which one would bring the bigger return, one National League scout said Cabrera, adding, "it's not even a discussion."

While Torii Hunter was passing his physical Monday, the Angels continued in their discussions with the Marlins about Miguel Cabrera. But apparently the talks have hit a snag due to a disagreement on which players would be involved in any trade. The Marlins would like a pair of the Angels young pitchers, but the Halos are reluctant to part with them. Source

Royals GM Drayton Moore is denying a report that his team is close to bringing in Jose Guillen. Moore said that the Orioles and at least one other team are still making a strong push for the Mariners right fielder. Source

Padres reliever Doug Brocail is on the verge of signing a free agent deal with the Houston Astros. Brocail had previously pitched for the Astros from 1995-1996. Source

The Boston Globe is reporting that talks have intensified between the Twins and Red Sox about centerfielder Coco Crisp. Source

Yorvit Torrealba is getting closer to returning to the Rockies after a near-miss with the Mets. Source

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Taylor Dies of Gunshot Wounds

Washington Redskins' defensive back Sean Taylor died early this morning from gunshot wounds he suffered early Monday morning. Doctors were hopeful that Taylor was improving, but the 24-year old lost too much blood after his femeral artery was compromised in the shooting.

Washington Post full story (Registration required)

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Yankees, Twins Discuss Santana

Hank Steinbrenner has told the Associated Press that the Yankees are in on-going discussions with the Minnesota Twins for 2-time Cy Young winner Johan Santana.

"I don't want to get into that at this point, as far as what they want, what we're willing to give and all that," he said. "It's preliminary right now."

Asked whether the Twins had said they would consider a trade, Steinbrenner responded: "Oh, yeah."

Source

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Stars That Could Be Re-Aligned

SI's Jon Heyman takes a look at the big name stars that could be switching teams during next week's winter meetings. Besides Johan Santana (whose first name we will spell correctly from now on, promise), the most intriguing name for Yankees' fans is Dan Haren. Oakland knows they can get a number of players back for their star right-hander, who is reasonably signed thru 2009, with an option for 2010.

The other big names discussed will be the two Miguels, Cabrera and Tejada. Among the other interesting topics that Heyman touches on, is the possibility of Mike Piazza going to Japan.

Read all about it

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Wood Returns to Cubs

ESPN radio in Chicago is reporting that the Cubs have re-signed free agent Kerry Wood to a 1-yr, $4 million deal.

If so, we can only think 2 things. 1) that would felt some loyalty to the Cubbies and 2) he's hoping to have a big year to get a big payoff. There's no doubt he could have gotten a multi-year deal with a number of teams, the Yankees included.

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Monday Hot Stove

Carlos Pena has told a Dominican paper that there is no truth to the rumor that he turned down a 3-year, $30 million offer from the Rays. Source

Another persistent rumor out of Tampa is a deal that would sent Delmon Young to the Twins for pitcher Matt Garza. It's hard to imagine the Rays dealing a player with Young's ability, but perhaps they aren't thrilled with his mental attitude. And of course the Rays are desperate to improve their starting pitching. Source

The Pirates, Padres, Indians, Diamondbacks, and Rockies have joined the Blue Jays in showing an interest in pitcher Matt Clement. Just goes to show you how desperate teams are to find pitching. Source

With Joel Zumaya out for the foreseeable future, the Tigers have begun to look at Octavio Dotel as a set up man and secondary closer for Todd Jones. Source

After an injury plagued year with the LA Dodgers, Randy Wolf may be returning to the Philadelphia Phillies. Wolf turned down a multi-year deal with the Phillies to play for his hometown team, but it turned out to be a disaster. Now Wolf may be "coming home". The Phillies have made an offer to put Wolf back into a Phillies uniform.

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Redskins' Sean Taylor in Critical Condition

It's been a rough few days in the sports world. First there was the passing of Joe Kennedy. Then Indians prospect Juan Lara was seriously injured in an accident in the Dominican Republic, when a motorcycle crashed into his car. The driver of the motorcycle and his passenger were killed instantly.

Now comes word that Redskins' safety Sean Taylor has been critically wounded in a shooting at his home in Miami. The bullet severed the femeral artery in Taylor's leg and he was rushed into surgery. We'll update this story as soon as we know more. We send out our thoughts and prayers to his family as well as that of Juan Lara. Source

UPDATE - 1:00 EST

From the Washington Post:

Just spoke with a friend of the family who said that Sean lost a substantial amount of blood and the bullet traveled near the femoral artery, which is located in the upper thigh. Sean's father, Pedro, the chief of police in Florida City, Florida, is with him at the hospital, according to the source. They believe the situation is stabalizing, and are obviously hoping for the best.

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The Weekend Yankeeland

The Post's Steve Serby has an interesting Q&A session with Hank Steinbrenner. While there are some similarities - talk now, think later - the prince sounds a lot less rehearsed than the king. Read Here.

* * *

Alex Rodriguez's new deal could pay him an additional $30 million in incentive clauses. Clauses that are normally illegal in baseball contracts. The Yankees have written it up in a way though so it is like a marketing package.

A-Rod can earn up to $6 million each time he passes one of the historical home runs leaders - Willie Mays, Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron and Barry Bonds. Another $6 million would be thrown in for becoming baseball's all-time home run leader. So 27.5 mill a year wasn't enough??? Source

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Winter League Update

The Arizona and Hawaii Fall Leagues recently concluded, where players like Brett Gardner and Austin Jackson were able to put their names on scout's lips.

Final Stats

Arizona League


Brett Gardner
.343-0-10, 27 Runs
17 BB, 17 K
16 for 17 SB attempts




Juan Miranda
.295-5-17, 16 Runs
16 BB, 18 K
.974 OPS




Reggie Corona
.188-1-8, 7 Runs
7 BB, 10 K
4 for 4 SB attempts




Eric Wordekemper
1-0, 2.89, 1 Save,1 Hold
9.1 IP 2 BB 8 K
1.07 WHIP



Ross Ohlendorf
0-0, 3.52, 3 Holds
7.2 IP 4 BB, 3 K
1.57 WHIP



Steven Jackson
0-1, 5.63 1 Hold
16 IP 7 BB 19 K
1.75 WHIP



Steven White
0-1, 6.23, 1 Hold
17.1 IP 6 11 K, 3 Starts
1.44 WHIP



Kevin Whelan
0-0, 12.00
3 IP - Sent home with
sore shoulder



Hawaiian League


Austin Jackson
.271-3-22, 25 Runs
10 3B, 5 2B, .856 OPS
18 BB 38 K
8 for 9 Stolen Base attempts


Brad Suttle
.100-1-6, 7 Runs
15 BB 30 K
3 2B



George Kontos
3-4, 3.71, 7 Starts
34 IP 10 BB 42 K
1.29 WHIP

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This Week in the NFL - Week 12 (cont.)

Well we went 2-1 on Thanksgiving Day, with the Colts doing better than we expected, for our lone loss. Another big game for Big Blue on Sunday. No Brandon Jacobs, no Derrick Ward. Which mean Reuben Droughns is going to have to be the man. The Vikings won't have Adrian Peterson, but Chester Taylor is coming off a 164-yd performance. Shut down the run, and you shut down the Vikings.

Vikings +7.5 at Giants
We've seen a tremendous lack of offense in Big Blue in 2 of their last 3 games. Without their top 2 running backs and Plaxico Burress being slowed more and more by his balky ankle, we a close one at the Meadowlands. The Giants will win, but won't cover.

Bills +8 at Jaguars
We're probably nuts. We thought the Bills could cover the huge spread, at home, last week against the Pats. This is a Jags team playing with a ton of confidence. That being said, we feel this will be a defensive minded game. A Jaguars win, but again, no cover.

Browns -3.5 vs. Texans
Matt Schaub was back for Houston last Sunday and immediately lead the Texans to a win. This should be a good one, but we have a lot of confidence in Derek Anderson.

Saints -2.5 at Panthers
Vinny Testaverde will be at QB for the woefully anemic Panthers squad. The Saints seemingly turned a corner only to turn into an embarrassment once again. But at 4-6 there's still an outside chance for a wild card in the weak NFC.

Raiders +5 vs. Chiefs
Remember when with this was one of the most physical, hate filled rivalries? The Raiders have been a shell of their former selves for quite some time and the Chiefs have no LJ and no Priest Holmes. This should be a dull 16-13 Chiefs win.

Seahawks -3 at Rams
The Rams scored 37 points against the Saints 2 weeks ago and then could only manage 13 in their win (2nd straight) against the Niners last week. At 6-4, the Seahawks have the playoffs in sight and should win in a rout.

Titans -1.5 at Bengals
We flip-flopped on this one, originally going with Cincy, but changing our minds at the last moment. We don't like to do that normally, but although we have faith in neither team, we have less in the Bungles.

Bucs -3.5 vs Redskins
The Redskins played a great, competitive game against Dallas last week, but they're not likely to do it 2 weeks in a row. The Bucs won't put the 'boys points on the boards, but they'll put in a better defensive showing.

Cardinals -10.5 vs. 49ers
Talk about a game to avoid. A Cardinals team giving 10.5? That's how bad this Niners team is and that's why we actually will pick the Cards.

Bears -2 vs. Broncos
Rex Grossman played his best game in a bear's age last week, and although that doesn't give us any confidence in him, the Broncos inconsistency isn't exactly inspiring. Bears in a low scoring game.

Chargers -8.5 vs. Ravens
We hate this spread more than the Cards. Which Chargers team will show up? The one that won 4 out of 5, or the one that lost 2 of the last 3? Does anyone need more convincing that Norv Turner isn't a good head coach? That being said, the Ravens stink on offense and Brian Billick's days are numbered.

Eagles +24 vs. Patriots
Is this an NCAA game? We can't recall the last time we saw a spread of 3 TDs or more. A.J. Feeley get the start for the Eagles and this should be a rout. But how can you NOT take 24 points?

Steelers +16 vs. Dolphins
This is beginning to look like college football spreads. The Steelers are coming off an embarrassing road loss to the Jets. And the Dolphins are going to pay for it.

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