Don Mattingly will take over as bench coach for the Yankees next season, replacing Lee Mazzilli, according to a newspaper report.
The move puts Mattingly one step closer to manager Joe Torre's job, making him the favorite to take over when the long-time skipper leaves, according to the report, posted Thursday night on Newsday's Web site.
The Yankees would not confirm the report when reached Thursday night by The Associated Press.
Report: Mattingly Replacing Mazzilli As Yankees Bench Coach