Five weeks away from pitchers and catchers beginning workouts in Tampa, the Yankees remain in pitching limbo.
Andy Pettitte still has not informed the team whether he wants to pitch in 2011, though there is increased optimism around Yankee Stadium that he will return. But until he informs them of a decision, the Yankees keep scouring the market for starters.
The latest name they have been linked to is Justin Duchscherer. ESPN reported the Yankees have “stepped up” their interest in the right-hander. But a baseball source said that may be an overstatement.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is checking every possible option, including pitchers like Duchscherer who are injury risks. The 33-year-old made just five starts for the A’s in 2010 after missing the entire 2009 season. He has had surgery on both hips, and dealt with an anxiety disorder in 2009.
When healthy, Duchscherer is attractive because he can both start and relieve. He made the All-Star team in 2008 as a starter and has a career 3.13 ERA. There were reports earlier this winter that he would only consider teams that would allow him to start. If Pettitte retires, the Yankees certainly would be looking at him as a starter.
The Yankees also have been linked to Kevin Millwood, Jeff Francis, Jeremy Bonderman and Bartolo Colon through various reports in recent weeks.
Pitchers and catchers work out for the first time on Feb. 15.
The Yankees also are in need of a fourth outfielder. A baseball source confirmed the Yankees are talking with Andruw Jones about filling that role.
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The Yankees announced their entire coaching staff will return next year except for pitching coach Dave Eiland. The Yankees hired Larry Rothschild in November to replace Eiland.
Kevin Long (hitting), Tony Pena (bench), Rob Thomson (third base), Mick Kelleher (first base) and Mike Harkey (bullpen) all will return.
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CC Sabathia and his wife, Amber, were named as the winners of the Bart Giamatti Award for their charitable work yesterday. The Sabathias will receive their award at the Baseball Assistance Team (BAT) Dinner on Jan. 25 at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square. The dinner also will honor late Yankees owner George Steinbrenner.
Sabathia also was named one of 10 finalists for the Jefferson Awards for Public Service, given annually to athletes who display an exemplary commitment to community service.