is the only solace for suffering Yankee fans who need to endure the talk of dynasty in Boston.
Alex Rodriguez' well-timed (we ARE Yankee fans here) announcement leaves a large crater at third base and without a doubt creates a significant power deficit in the Yankee lineup. His 0-lifetime record in the postseason with RISP notwithstanding there isn't another third baseman in the game capable of 50 HR and 150 RBI. Losing A-Rod means the luxury of a Doug Mientkiewicz (assuming he comes back) is suddenly more expensive.
Girardi is the right choice and while a shame to lose Mattingly - to quote Tessio, it's not personal it's business.
The 20+ million saved by not signing Alex Rodriguez needs to be deployed wisely.
1. A very aggressive effort should be made to sign Mike Lowell. He's capable defensively, has pop, has performed in a tough town and at 33 should still have a few good years left. It would also take a piece away from a very successful Boston team. There are not a lot of good 3Bs in free agency this year so this has to be the priority. If he gets away a choice may be to try Robby Cano at 3B - used to be a third baseman. Easier to get a utility 2B. [Great free agent site: mlb4u.com]
2. Trade for a #1 or near #1 starter from the AL. Such as Johan Santana or AJ Burnett. If a legitimate #1 cannot be had, wait. With Wang, Pettitte, Hughes, Chamberlain and Kennedy+ can afford to be patient. No more Pavanos please or over the hill marquees like Maddux. One would consider Roger or Schilling (though Schilling has ruled out the Yanks)
3. Try to improve team speed where possible. Any team with Giambi, Posada and Matsui could use help.
This assumes that Posada, Mo and Pettitte return.
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