The Yankees appear determined to upgrade their rotation this off-season with or without CC Sabathia.
They are rumored to be willing to top the Braves offer on AJ Burnett and now reports say they are negotiating with Scott Boras on a four-year $65 million deal for Dodgers starter Derek Lowe.
Four years seems to be a lot for a 35 year-old starter, but the Yankees appear pretty desperate at this point. They might feel that it is inevitable that the former Red Sox returns to Boston and they are trying to drive up his value.
Lowe would prefer a five-year $80 million deal, but that is unlikely and has already scared the Red Sox and the Mets from making an offer. Although it is entirely possible both teams make a lesser offer.
Aside from the Yankees, the Phillies are aggresively pursuing Lowe.
Rob Abruzzese