Who's Next?

Now that the CC signing is inevitable (assume the physical he takes doesn't reveal he has gravy in his body instead of actual blood) its time to look at what the Yankees will do next?

Going into the off-season the Yanks wanted to sign 3 starters to their rotation. One down...two to go. Depending on what rumors you are looking at its looks to be like two of the following four: Pettitte, Burnett, Lowe, Sheets. I would love any combination of Sheets and X. Why Sheets? Well he has dominant stuff. Can most likely be had for a two year deal at less money than the others. And upside is better than all the other pitchers on the list.

As for the position player side, the Yankees have been in talk for Rick Ankiel over the last few days. The Cards seem to overvalue Rick when they asked for JJ Putz from the Mariners (were they serious?). Personally I would love to have Rick in CF, but the asking price will have to come way down. Simple fact is he is going into the last year of his contract and is a Boras client. Usually that combination means he is heading straight for FA.

Another intriguing name is Manny. ManRam would be the perfect hitter to place in the 3 or 4 holes. I feel like he would be extra motivated on the Yankees to show up the Red Sox each and every time they face off. And if they go 3 years will anyone doubt that he will be hitting .290/25/100 in year 3 or 4 for that matter. The guy can flat out rake and players these days don't tail off in talent as much as they used to in generations past. As for his clubhouse effect, players such as Mariano, Jeter, Posada (the old guard) can keep him in check. And don't forget he is good friends with A-Rod. Lord knows Alex could use a close friend in NY. Where would he play? Well how about this for starters. Sign Manny and trade Matsui to the Giants. Eat most of his contract if you have to (he only has one year left anyway). Then your outfield would be set and, in my opinion, you wouldn't need to chase a CF this year. Gardner provides enough defense at that position to look past his bat. Plus his speed when he does get on base is electric. With that you would have a line-up that looks like this:

1. Damon LF
2. Jeter SS
3. Manny DH
4. A-Rod 3B
5. Posada C
6. Nady RF
7. Swisher 1B
8. Cano 2B
9. Gardner/Melky CF

I know its three righties in a row after Damon. But seriously, would you want any other three? All three (DJ, ManRam, ARod) can hit right handed pitching (especially Manny). Posada and Swisher are switch hitters.

So as the Hot Stove keeps on burning, so do the Yankees check writers. Not to mention Cashman's Amex Card raking up those frequent flier miles. Things should start to get crazy now that CC has signed.