A-Rod Goes Full Circle

The Daily News reported that All-Star third baseman Alex Rodriguez is re-opening talks with the New York Yankees on a surprise deal that would bring him back to the Bronx. According to the report, Rodriguez has been negotiating with Yankee officials alone, without the help of his agent Scott Boras. However, it appears the Yankees are not willing to discuss a contract with Rodriguez if Boras is present. A club source told the Daily News, "We will not negotiate with Scott Boras. He cannot be in the room."

A report published on Yankees.com Wednesday evening revealed that the Yankees and Rodriguez are close to agreeing on a multi-year $290 million dollar contract. The Yankees also denied a report published earlier in the day regarding their unwillingness to negotiate with Boras present.

Rodriguez contacted Hank and Hal Steinbrenner through a third person party and plans to visit them in Tampa, FL before a deal would be settled. The Yankees do acknowledge that Rodriguez could be luring them into conversations only to drive his price up in the open market as a free agent. However, a Yankee official told the Daily News that it doesn't appear to be the case.

Rodriguez released a statement on his website AROD.com stating,

"Cynthia and I have since spoken directly with the Steinbrenner family. During these healthy discussions, both sides were able to share honest feelings and hopes with one another, and we expect to continue this dialogue with the Yankees over the next few days." , said Rodriguez.

According to Rodriguez he approached the Steinbrenner family through a third-party intermediary. The contact apparently has strong ties with both Rodriguez and the Yankee organization.

After a stellar 2007 season, Rodriguez is likely to be named the American League Most Valuable Player next Monday. He led the Major League in home runs (54), RBI's (156) and runs scored (143), in 2007. He also batted .318 with 24 stolen bases. He is the most highly touted free agent this offseason and the youngest player to ever hit 500 HR.

On Tuesday the Yankees re-signed All-Star catched Jorge Posada to a 4-year deal worth an estimated $52.5 million. Yankees closer Mariano Rivera remains unsigned but was offered a 3-year deal worth $45 million, which would consequently make him the highest paid closer in the game by $4 million. Rivera has not informed the Yankees if he will accept the offer.