Zell's Pinstripe Blog

  Here are some different rumors, news, and motes from around the league concerning the Yankees:

• Yankees purchased the contracts of RHP Eric Hacker and LHP Wilkins De La Rossa.Two unheralded pitchers coming off very nice seasons. Hacker, 25, had a 2.43 ERA and a 115/37 K/BB ratio in 144 1/3 IP between Single-A Tampa and Double-A Trenton. De La Rossa, 22, had a 2.11 ERA while splitting time between the pen and rotation for two A-ball teams. Neither ranks among the Yankees’ top prospects, but the team didn’t want to lose either to minor league free agency.
• Astros tell Yanks Oswalt, Berkman not for sale. Apparently..the Yankees called the Astros asking  about Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman and were told they were not going to be dealt .
• C.C. Sabathia has an open mind on where he may go. “We’ve heard all that, too,” agent Greg Genske told me a few minutes ago. “All I can tell you is that CC is going to have an open mind about every team. He’ll listen to everybody.” The Brewers have made Sabathia an offer and they gave exclusive negotiating rights until Nov. 14.

      – Brian Cashman has been getting calls about Brett Gardner and Austin Jackson.

• McNamee’s lawyer: Roger Clemens’ defamation suit could backfire “A favorable ruling Monday in Roger Clemens’ defamation suit against Brian McNamee could backfire on the Rocket – at least according to McNamee’s attorney.
• For Leyritz, Future in Balance After a Fall Leyritz is awaiting trial in Florida on charges of manslaughter and driving under the influence of alcohol after a crash last December that killed 30-year-old Fredia Ann Veitch. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.
• A new look in 2009? As the general managers’ meetings commence, and the Hot Stove is lit, it seems possible that the opening day lineup in 2009 will bear little resemblance to the 2008 version.
• A rundown of key free agents 1. Sabathia. Good for the Brewers and their go-for-the-gusto owner Mark Attanasio to make a serious try at around $100 mil. And while the Dodgers, Angels and others might also make a play, realistically the Yankees can blow everyone away. My call: Yankees, seven years, $160 million. A.J. Burnett, starting pitcher. Once he exercises the opt-out clause in his Blue Jays contract, the money should roll in. Timed his best year well. My call: Yankees, five years, $80 million.
• Cashman says Yankees could have slot for Mussina If Mike Mussina decides to pitch next year, the New York Yankees could make room for him in their uncertain starting rotation.