Cano Looking to Future

The Yankees have not had a long-term 2nd Baseman since Mets' manager Willie Randolph manned the position in the 1970's and 1980's. (Pat Kelly only played more than 100 games twice in his 7 years in the pinstripes, and Chuck Knoblauch lasted only 4, mentally challenged years in the Bronx.) But Robinson Cano would like to change all of that. Entering his 4th full season in the majors, the native Dominican would like to sign a long term deal with the Yankees, and avoid arbitration.

In his first year of arbitration eligibility, Cano's reps a proposal of $4.55 million. The Yankees' proposal is well below that at $3.2 million. Cano started out poorly in '07, but finished with career highs in home runs and RBI, and has a lifetime batting average of .314. With help from former coach Larry Bowa, Cano's defense has also improved greatly and he is blossoming into one of the better defensive 2nd Baseman in the AL.

Cano's agent Bobby Barad told Newsday's Kat O'Brien that no negotiations have begun with the Yankees. But Barad said that Cano would be open to have his status locked up early, as the crosstown Mets did with David Wright and Jose Reyes.

"Could it get done? That's more complicated", said Barad. "It depends on, there's so many factors that would determine that."

With large salaries already being paid to a number of older veterans and others, such as Derek Jeter, having contracts coming up for renewal sooner rather than later, it's understandable that the Yankees may not want to throw too much money at Cano too soon. Then again they may want to learn a lesson from their previous contract negotiations with Jeter, who made much more money after the Yankees decided not to initially offer him a long term deal.

As Don Mattingly once said, referring to contract status, "This year they (the Yankees) have the hammer. Next year I will.".

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Prior, Santana Not on Hank's Xmas List

As Hank Steinbrenner sits down on Christmas to unwrap his packages, it's unlikely they'll be an ace left-hander, or oft-injured star under the tree. Prince Hank told Newsday's Kat O'Brien that there's only an outside chance of Johan Santana becoming a Yankee, and though they have explored it, it's unlikely Mark Prior will be in the Bronx either.

As for Santana, "We've got to do things based on what we think is best. I think myself and [general manager] Brian are going back and forth. I think we're comfortable staying where we are, and I certainly think we'd be comfortable getting Santana, too."

SI's Jon Heyman believes that Santana will become a Yankee if Hank overrules Cashman concerning what player's are to be included. Hank seemed to confirm that with this statement:

"The decision is my decision," Steinbrenner said. "It doesn't matter one way or another what somebody ... you have to take advice, but ultimately, the owner has to make a decision.

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