Mariano Rivera to test Free Agency

Dr. Giganto

Well, the point i was trying to make is that after next year, a ton of big-named underperformers will come off the payroll (Mussina, Giambi, Farnsworth), plus Pettitte will probably be gone. And if they exercise the option on Abreu (which Ithink they should), he will be gone after 2007. That's like $75 million in payroll off the roster.The year after that, Damon will be gone. That's another $13 million off the roster.

They are a little tied up for next year, though. They dont have the flexibility to change the roster THAT much. But after 2008, thats when things open up a little for them. I think there's no way Mariano leaves, though. I think Abreu is a guy they need, because he's really one of the "little things" guys that SS talked about the Yankees needing. He was a decent 4-15 in the series, also had two walks, and consistently put together good at-bats and made the pitcher work. Plus, he's only 32, so you gotta figure he's not washed-up or anything

And it's not like they were an 80-win team or anything. They won 94 games, had the highest-scoring offense in baseball, and the 3rd best record in the entire major leagues. It's not like they're gonna be total shitbags next year.

Suntan Superman

WC's Resident Samoan

I love the "all the little things" types of guys, and as overpaid, and underrated Abreu is, he is that, along with Melky. These guys can make and break teams. David Eckstein really isn't all the greatest shortstop, Nick Punto is a terrible third baseman, but these guys bring their game and it brings everyone up. Ask anyone in that Twins clubhouse, they love to have even the struggling Punto here

Blitzkrieg

I mentioned role players, but not at $16M/year. But then.. it's the Yankees, so I guess it's not all that important as to what they spend, as long as the guy does the job.

If you look at the Red Sox lineup, it's arguable that right now they are the 2nd most dangerous team in baseball behind the Yanks, and they really only have two stars. They are HUGE stars, but two nonetheless.

For some reason, I have more confidence in a Pedroia, Youk, or Ellsbury in getting the key hit then I do most all-star players.

Suntan Superman

WC's Resident Samoan

Looking at the salaries... $16 million is on par for a role playing Yankee

Dr. Giganto

Ellsbury? After 33 games?

Blitzkrieg

I like what I've seen. Early yes, but I would rather have him at the plate then $75M man JD Drew.