CC Update & Some Other Stuff

More details are starting to emerge about the mega-deal the Yankees made with CC Sabathia. The contract is rumored to be for 7 years and for $161 million, which is $23 million per year. The deal also includes an opt-out clause, which CC can exercise after 3 years, which would be at the conclusion of the 2011 season. I did read, but can't remember where, that Sabathia was requesting an opt-our clause in any deal he made. I'm not sure how I feel about the inclusion of an opt-out clause. I can understand why he wants it. I can understand why the Yankees gave it to him. It doesn't mean he's going anywhere. But if it's not a match made in heaven, they can part ways. Moving on.....

It sounds like the Yanks are moving in on Derek Lowe. I'm resigned to the fact that the Yanks are going to sign either A.J. Burnett as Derek Lowe. I'd prefer neither, but if I had to pick one, I'd go with Lowe. I think Burnett has better stuff, but Lowe is much more durable and you can bank on him to start 34 games a year. I'd also go with the 4 year deal versus the 5 that Burnett is going to get. But Lowe scares me. I don't think he's that good. Sure he pitched well in LA, but that's a pitcher's park in a pitcher's league. He should do that well in LA. His last 2 years in Boston weren't so hot. Lowe posted an ERA of 4.47 in 2003 and an ERA of 5.42 in 2005. Those numbers scare me. I don't see him fairing any better if he returns to an even tougher AL East. I just don't see it happening.

And finally, according to Jon Heyman at SI.com, Big Bank Hank apparently wants the Yankees to sign Manny Ramirez. I wouldn't necessary mind seeing Manny in the Boogie Down. But I'd much prefer to see Mark Teixeira. If they're going to spend the money on offense, spend it on Tex. Unless some other roster moves are made, the Yankees don't really need another LF/DH.

Ah the hot stove. You have to love all the rumors and whatnot.

Peace, love and Pinstripes,

J-Boogie