Mike Mussina's six-year, $88.5 million contract expires at the end of this season and the 37-year-old said yesterday he would like to return to the Bronx next season. Whether that happens, however, may not be decided so soon. Although Mussina said he would be open to talking about a contract extension during spring training, the Yankees might not be ready just yet. Asked about Mussina yesterday, GM Brian Cashman praised the righthander but said, "As of right now, February of 2006, my intention is to focus my attention on 2006. I'll think about 2007 at the end of the season or when the time is right." Technically, the Yanks first must decide whether to pick up Mussina's option for next year. Since the option is worth $17 million, however, it's a pretty safe bet that the Bombers will pay the $1.5 million buyout and attempt to work out a new deal if they want him. Mussina said he would not be disappointed if the Yanks want him to play out the final year of his current deal.