Thursday Hot Stove Roundup

Here’s some Hot Stove stuff from the last few days…

From the Daily News:

Yankees and Jeter open negotiations

In the words of “Lord of the Rings,” so it begins. While I don’t think the negotiations will be as epic as the Battle of Helms Deep, I think we’re in for a bit of a ride. No matter what, though, that ride will arrive back at a familiar station: the one in which Derek Jeter is a part of the New York Yankees.

Brian Cashman flew to Arkansas to meet with Cliff Lee

So it beings…again. These negotiations should be more exciting than the Jeter negotiations because there’s going to be at least two suitors: the Yankees and the Rangers. The Nationals are apparently trying to get into the mix, as are the Red Sox. At the end of the “day” though, I think it’s going to come down to the Yankees and the Rangers.

Jorge is going to DH

I’m okay with this. Jorge’s bat may not be prototypical for a DH, but without having to worry about the wear-and-tear of catching, Jorge’s bat could pick up a bit more. If Jesus Montero’s bat is as good as advertised, this could look like a great move. I’m getting way ahead of myself here, but I wonder what happens if Jorge has a good year. He’s in the last year of his contact, but if he has a good year at the plate in 2011 and takes to DHing, will he be interested in extending his career? Most of us just assume that Posada will hang it up after 2011, but could he hang on longer? If he does will it be with the Yankees?

Over at LoHud, Sam Borden gave a brief history of Andy Pettitte’s decision dates from 2007-2009. Sam expects a one year deal signed sometime in December. I’ll agree with Sam here. I thought the only way Pettitte would leave was if the Yankees won the World Series in 2010, and they obviously didn’t do that. I’m cautiously optimistic for Pettitte to perform strongly in 2011.

Also, I’m sure you’ve been reminded a bunch today, but take at least a few moments and reflect on the fact that it’s Veterans Day. If there are any vets reading this, thanks for all you’ve done to make it possible for me to write this. We may not express it well, or even often, but we’re all grateful for your service and sacrifice.

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