Jeter’s Agent & Cashman Meet In Tampa
Via the fellas at the Daily News -
According to a source, [Jeter's agent Casey] Close and general manager Brian Cashman met Tuesday in Tampa, the first face-to-face sit-down between the Yankees and Jeter since November 8. The meeting was first reported Tuesday night by FoxSports.com.
Recognizing that they were winning the public relations war, the Yankees haven’t seemed inclined to increase their initial three-year, $45 million offer, leaving it in Close’s hands to close the gap between that offer and Jeter’s demands.
It was unclear as to whether any significant progress was made during the session with Cashman and Close, however another source said there was “nothing imminent” and indicated the two sides still appeared to have a long ways to go toward a settlement on a new deal for Jeter.
Neither Close nor Cashman responded to requests for comment.
I wonder how long is a “long ways”? Spring Training starts in about 12 weeks.
Giants signed Miguel Tejada, one less potential suitor.
@ Raf:
It’s hard to believe how well-traveled Tejada has become over the past few years (OAK>BAL>HOU>BAL>SD>SF). Just a few seasons ago, he was still one of the better players in baseball.
Steve Lombardi wrote:
I assume it’ll take the entire 12 week time-period between now and Spring Training. Frankly, it wouldn’t surprise me if Jeter doesn’t sign until the night before he’s due to report to the team.
In the absence of another suitor/offer, the only leverage Jeter has is waiting as long as possible before signing his contract, hoping the Yankees panic and throw more money and years at the problem. If the Yankees hold firm and Jeter gets no other offers, one way or another, Jeter will have to sign on the dotted line.
Jeter only gains leverage if a team now with a shortstop looks to deal him, thus opening the position. Suppose, for instance, the Mets were close to dealing Jose Reyes for a starting pitcher. They might want a deal in place for a replacement before proceeding. For that reason, it behooves Jeter and Close to delay signing.
MJ Recanati wrote:
Not really, if you think about it; The A’s couldn’t afford to keep him, he signs a big money contract with the O’s. The O’s send him to the ‘Stros, where he plays out his contract. He signs with the O’s again, who deal him to the Padres for the stretch run. Now a FA, he signs with the Giants. At 36(?) years old, we’ll probably be seeing more movement from Tejada, if he has anything left.
@ Raf:
I hear ya. The moves were all logical, as you said. I’m just thinking in terms of how this former MVP is starting to make the rounds. I’m sure it happens a lot (Griffey went from CIN>CHW>SEA in the span of one calendar year) but it’s just weird to see a former stud now becoming a migrant worker.