Who's Next?

So with CC committed, right down to his 3rd year opt out clause, the Yanks are still looking to add two more pieces for their rotation to go along with CC, Wang and Joba. The three leading candidates for those two spots are Ben Sheets, Derek Lowe and AJ Burnett, with Andy Pettitte in a fallback position.

There are a few reports circulating that Derek Lowe, the 35 year old sinkerballer could sign a 4 year Yankee deal as soon as tonight. Lowe's positives include the fact that sinkerball pitchers tend to age pretty well, remember Tommy John? And Lowe hasn't missed a start in 7 years. The negatives are his age, and the fact that he doesn't miss bats. With the Yankee defense that could make some long nights at the new cathedral in the Bronx.

Ben Sheets has become a hot Yankee prospect over the last 48 hours. Sheets' positives include great, make you miss stuff, and shorter contract requirements. The negative with Sheets has been his health. He hasn't pitched 200 innings since 2004.

AJ Burnett is said the be the first choice of the Yanks who've had to face him. AJ's positives include simply ridiculous, make-you-miss, stuff, and a great record in the AL East. His negatives are health, he has only pitched 200 innings in contract years, and contract length: he is said to want 5 years.

Now that Sabathia is off the board, the top starter should go pretty quickly. I think the Yanks could go Lowe/Burnett, but we'll see.

There's also been some talk about the Yanks trading for CF's Rick Ankiel and Mike Cameron, and remaining in the mix for a possible late run at Manny Ramirez.

Go Yanks!