Yankees Throw $$ at CC

"I am free". Those are words are on the lips of Major League Baseball players seeking new contracts. Yesterday was the first official day of the free agent signing period. There are some HUGE names out there this year expecting huge contracts. We'll be taking a look at them over the next several days and we'll talk about what the Yankees may do.

What the Yankees have reportedly already done is make a record setting offer to free agent pitcher CC Sabathia. The money is said to top the $137.5 million the Mets gave Johan Santana after acquiring him in a trade prior to the 2008 season. The Yankees had a chance for Santana but refused to part with a package of players that included Phil Hughes. After the disappointing seasons by Hughes and Ian Kennedy, the Yankees front office was privately kicking themselves for not pulling the trigger on the Santana deal. This year, with only draft picks to lose, the Yankees are doing everything they can to bring in this year's prized left-hander.

The Yankees aren't just going after Sabathia though. Reports are they are ready to make offer to free agent pitcher A.J. Burnett and Derek Lowe. We're not huge fans of either, but they would be an improvement over last year's staff. Burnett has tremendous stuff, but has been oft injured. He opted out of his 5-year, $55 million deal with the Blue Jays and will probably seek $15 million a year.

Lowe had the reputation of being soft until he helped pitch the Red Sox to the World Series in 2004. He's been good in LA, though he received more recognition for having an affair with a female reporter. He'll be seeking the same type of money as Burnett.

Free agent signings are also affected by trades, one of which took place on Thursday. The Cubs acquired closer Kevin Gregg from the Marlins, meaning they were saying good bye to long time, oft-injured starter and closer Kerry Wood. Wood, at the price, would be an interesting addition to the Yankees bullpen.