Steve Phillips of ESPN reported early Thursday morning that the Red Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks are discussing a trade involving shortstop Julio Lugo and outfielder Eric Byrnes.
CC Sabathia just became the richest pitcher ever, and he did so with a level of class and character that will help the Yankees even when he isn't pitching.
If rumors are true that CC Sabathia has agreed to a seven-year deal with the Yankees worth $160 million, he will average a salary of more than $22.8 million annually.
CC Sabathia will receive an opt-out clause after three years, which was a prerequisite for him to sign with any team, not just the Yankees, according to a source.
The Tigers are interested in J.J. Putz, and the Cardinals have offered center fielder Rick Ankiel and a prospect, according to a rival general manager.
While a deal is not done, the source said there are "zero major road blocks" that would prevent the Yankees from an reaching agreement with CC Sabathia.
The Pirates have initiated talks with three players -- center fielder Nate McLouth, catcher Ryan Doumit, and pitcher Paul Maholm -- regarding long-term contract extensions.
Pat Burrell may prefer to remain with the Phillies, but his agent claims that the veteran left fielder will almost certainly will be playing elsewhere in 2009.