Yankees' trade rumors

The clock is ticking on MLB's trade deadline and the New York Yankees are always part of the drama. Hype never sleeps and although it is clear there are no miracles on the horizon the Yankees' financial clout keeps hope for improvement alive. The Bombers' Brass has made it clear they won't deal bona fide prospects but teams looking to dump salary and willing to take suspects are still in the mix. Here are a few links on interest:

• The man on the beat gives us a dose of reality: "A few things to keep in mind:
  * Many writers just throw stuff out there with the hope that something sticks and they can claim they had it first. I’d wager than half of what you read, mainstream and otherwise, is either nonsense or old news." A few more caveats: "Try and think a little..." Don't you hate when that happens? Be careful not to overvalue the Yankees just because you like them. That's the GM's job. "Four mediocre players, do not make for one good one. A team that is a seller doesn't need scrubs." Unless, they are selling out their fan base with a salary dump.
• Which leads us to Seattle: "In his third year with the Mariners, Washburn has a 4-9 record and 4.75 ERA, with 32 walks and 65 strikeouts in 110 innings. Washburn is signed through 2009, with a $10.35-million salary, so Seattle is not in a position to ask the Yankees for a strong package of talent. It has been suggested that the Mariners would be willing to take Igawa. Do you believe in miracles?
• More logs on the fire: "Other pitchers the Yankees are monitoring include Bronson Arroyo of the Cincinnati Reds, a starter, and three relievers: Brian Fuentes of the Colorado Rockies, Dámaso Marte of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Josh Grabow, also of the Pirates.
  The Yankees are also exploring hitters who could become available, including Jason Bay and Xavier Nady of the Pirates. But they are not expecting Colorado to trade outfielder Matt Holliday, and they doubt they can land a catcher to improve on the tandem of José Molina and Chad Moeller."

The grass is always greener and there is never a shortage of names. The Yankees' financial resources give them a clear advantage over the competition. Their willingness to exploit that edge will be worth monitoring.