Torre sounds off
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| Torre |
Joe Torre knows the Yankees' payroll is likely to go down next year and the New York manager said baseball's new labor agreement is clearly the cause. Under the labor deal, the Yankees estimate they will pay $55 million in revenue sharing and luxury tax next year, up from about $33 million they gave other teams this year. New York's payroll was about $135 million this season, by far the highest in the major leagues, and owner George Steinbrenner wants it to go down. "It's going to be something less than what we had, I guess," said Torre. "It was aimed at George, and they're going to get their pound of flesh."
Rogers: Tightening the belt
Clemens offered arbitration
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| Clemens |
Six-time Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens was offered arbitration Dec. 7. Clemens has until Dec. 19 to accept or reject the offer and can re-sign with the Yankees through Jan. 8. New York, seeking to cut payroll, wasn't sure until the weekend it would offer arbitration to the 40-year-old Clemens, who is coming off a $30.9 million, two-year contract. He was 13-6 with a 4.35 ERA last season in 29 starts, and needs seven wins to reach 300. "I am optimistic that we will reach an agreement before Christmas," said Clemens' agent, Randy Hendricks.
Clemens: No worries | Loyal Rocket
Ventura agrees to $5M deal
| | Ventura took a pay cut from his 2002 salary of $8.25M. |
Third baseman Robin Ventura completed his $5 million, one-year contract with the Yankees on Dec. 5 after passing a physical. "Robin Ventura's production and veteran leadership were invaluable to the Yankees in 2002," said general manager Brian Cashman. "We look forward to him being a key contributor in our quest for another world championship in 2003." The team originally had hoped prospect Drew Henson would be ready to take over at third base by now. But the former Michigan football star has struggled in the minors.
Gammons: Diamond notes
Expos deny trade report
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