Pitchers highlight Yanks' arb-eligible players

The organization wasn't expected to announce any non-tenders until Wednesday, but reports indicated that the Yankees reached an agreement with the 29-year-old Rogers on Tuesday evening. Rogers will be guaranteed $750,000 and can earn as much as $1.48 million with incentives, according to contract figures obtained by CBS Sports.

Rogers joined the Yankees as a waiver claim from the Blue Jays last July 31, logging a 4.68 ERA in 18 appearances during a campaign in which he earned $1.85 million. At the time of his acquisition, manager Joe Girardi indicated that the Yankees have liked Rogers' live arm for some time.

Another choice revolves around Huff, a 30-year-old left-hander, who posted a 1.85 ERA and 3-1 record in 30 appearances for the Yankees. Having worked mostly as a long reliever, Huff's contract was purchased from the Giants in early June and he earned $505,000 in 2014, making him a borderline non-tender call for the Yanks.

Their other four players seem to be good bets to receive contracts. Kelley, 30, had a 4.53 ERA in 59 appearances in 2014, showing improved strikeout and walk rates over his first Yankees season despite missing time with a back injury. Kelley earned $1.765 million and recently said he is optimistic about a new contract.

"I would assume if everything plays out normally, barring any freakish signings or trades, I'll be back with the Yankees," Kelley said. "I'm not worried at all about it, but it's also baseball, and I've been through the process a few times. I know sometimes things happen that you can't control, but I'm pretty relaxed and just waiting for the process to play out."

Nova seems to be a lock to receive a deal; managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner has spoken several times about expecting to get the right-hander back from Tommy John surgery and plugged into the big league rotation sometime after May 2015. Nova will turn 28 in January, and he had an 8.27 ERA in four starts this past year, for which he earned $3.3 million.

Pineda, who will turn 26 in January, is in line for a jump over his $538,475 salary, having shown dominant stuff when healthy. Making his first Yankees appearances after two years on the shelf, Pineda was 5-5 with a 1.89 ERA in 13 starts and projects to slot high in the rotation alongside Masahiro Tanaka and CC Sabathia next season.

Phelps, 28, earned $541,425 in 2014 and was 5-5 with a 4.38 ERA in 32 games (17 starts), bouncing between the rotation and the bullpen to fill several roles based on the Yanks' needs. He projects to head into 2015 as a swingman option, capable of competing for a starting slot, while also helping in relief.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Inbox: Will Yanks make big-ticket acquisition?

One of the most entertaining parts of a winter during the George Steinbrenner era was to see how The Boss would respond to big news coming out of Boston. You don't have to roll the clock back too far to recall Steinbrenner swooping in to steal Jose Contreras out of the Sox's grasp, prompting then-Boston GM Theo Epstein to supposedly destroy a chair in his hotel suite. When the Red Sox shelled out to import Daisuke Matsuzaka a few years later, the Yankees responded by writing a large check to Kei Igawa. (That one didn't work out.)

That said, the Yankees operate differently under Hal Steinbrenner; the offseason plan isn't altered to answer what the Red Sox -- or, for that matter, the Blue Jays -- have done in the division. The Yankees have needs and they intend to fill them, but their shopping list isn't being altered just because Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez now call Fenway Park home.

Hoch on Yankees' bullpen moves 3:25

MLB.com Yankees reporter Bryan Hoch joins Hot Stove to discuss David Robertson and Andrew Miller's chances of wearing pinstripes in 2015

The wish list has been pretty well-stated at this point. The Yankees need to upgrade the left side of their infield, want to add at least one starting pitcher and must address the bullpen, especially if David Robertson pitches elsewhere in 2015.

Thus far, the Yankees have acted as though they spent their big money last offseason (nearly $500 million on Brian McCann, Jacoby Ellsbury, Carlos Beltran and Masahiro Tanaka alone), but they've also shown willingness to lay in the weeds and make a January splash in years past. For that reason, I still wouldn't rule out a signing on the Max Scherzer level.

What is so hard about getting Robertson signed? He should have been signed for four years before the season or in October.
-- Mark A., Bismarck, N.D.

Hindsight is 20/20, I suppose. At this time last year, there were legitimate questions about Robertson's ability to handle the closer's role -- remember, he'd converted only eight of 18 save opportunities during his career, and it wasn't until late January that the Yankees actually named Robertson their closer. There was a thought that they were keeping options open and could grab a guy like Grant Balfour or Fernando Rodney.

Nelson on free-agent relievers 4:00

MLB.com's Tim McMaster and Jeff Nelson discuss David Robertson leading a strong selection of free-agent relievers

Robertson has said he might have entertained a hometown discount at that time, but the Yanks never approached him, so he set his sights on testing the open market. It turned out to be a wise decision for him; he's the top available closer out there, and whether it's from the Yankees or not, he'll probably get the four-year deal that he reportedly desires.

It's been a while since we heard about the Yankees dismissing Kevin Long as their hitting coach. How far are the Yankees from replacing him?
-- John W., Toms River, N.J.

Yes, it has nearly been two months, and the positions previously held by Long and infield coach Mick Kelleher are still vacant. The Yankees interviewed a new candidate last week, according to GM Brian Cashman, who did not want to reveal that person's identity. At the time, Cashman said the Yankees were at least a week away from making a coaching hire.

Here's what we do know: The Yankees interviewed Dave Magadan, but chose not to hire him, Chili Davis chose the Red Sox over the Yankees, and Raul Ibanez is no longer interested in the position. The Yankees have also interviewed Double-A hitting coach Marcus Thames and Minor League hitting coordinator James Rowson.

What are the Yankees plans for Martin Prado, starter or backup?
-- Mike H., New Haven, Conn.

He'll be a starter, somewhere, as the roster is currently comprised. If Alex Rodriguez comes into camp and impresses enough to earn the third-base job, Prado could play second base. Prado might also be used at third, giving prospects Rob Refsnyder, who's the Yankees' No. 6-ranked prospect, and Jose Pirela a chance to win the second-base job. They could use Prado in right field if Beltran has injury issues like he did in '14. The Yanks also saw Prado play a few innings in left field. By the way, Prado is said to have recovered from his season-ending appendectomy.

Player Profile: Martin Prado 5:06

After being acquired by the Yankees at the 2014 trade deadline, spark plug Martin Prado contributed both offensively and defensively.

Do you see the Yankees making a run at Jimmy Rollins? If so, what kind of package would they need to offer?
-- David E., Portland, Maine

This idea was hit with cold water last week; ESPN reported that the Yankees checked in on Rollins, but were turned off by the Phillies' high asking price and have since moved on. According to that report, the Yankees only offered a utility player in exchange for Rollins, who just turned 36 and is due $11 million in 2015.

What are the plans for shortstop? Are the Yankees really planning to go the Brendan Ryan route?
-- Bob B., Alexandria, Va.

I strongly doubt it. The talk since the season ended is that the Yankees must find a player who'd be an upgrade over Ryan, who is a terrific defensive player but doesn't bring much with the bat. They've been trying the trade front without any luck. If they choose to fill shortstop via free agency, they could try to squeeze a bounceback year out of Stephen Drew or pursue the likes of Asdrubal Cabrera and Jed Lowrie.

Who do you think will play right field next season?
-- Nancee T., Oldsmar, Fla.

The Yankees entered the winter locked into the idea that Beltran would return from his elbow surgery and be a much different player than the one you saw this past season. All reports thus far have been positive, and with two years and $30 million remaining on his contract, the Yanks certainly hope that continues to be the case. If Beltran can't play the outfield and needs to spend most of the year DHing again, it would create a logjam with A-Rod and Mark Teixeira also needing reps there.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Winter Meetings should bring opportunity for Yanks

"I'm just going to say we're doing everything in our power to improve the club," Cashman said recently. "Ownership has always been very beneficial with the resources to put the team on the field."

Cashman has repeatedly stated the team's needs coming off a campaign in which New York won 84 games and finished 12 games behind the division-winning Orioles. Most have yet to be addressed with any finality.

Uncertain of what they can expect from Alex Rodriguez -- who's coming off a season-long suspension, turns 40 in July and has played a total of 44 games over the last two years -- Cashman needs to identify a contingency plan at third base.

The Yankees have Martin Prado on the roster as one option, but a return engagement with Chase Headley remains on the radar. Headley's market was helped by Pablo Sandoval's five-year, $95 million pact with the Red Sox, also pushing the Giants into competition as a potential landing spot for the 30-year-old.

Derek Jeter's replacement at shortstop is also unidentified. Brendan Ryan is under contract as a placeholder, but the Yankees intend to find an upgrade over the defensive specialist. Stephen Drew, Asdrubal Cabrera and Jed Lowrie head the list of available free agents, and the trade front has also been engaged.

Sabathia looking to bounce back 48

Matt Waymire and Jim Duquette discuss CC Sabathia's offseason efforts as the Yankees lefty looks to bounce back in 2015

"In terms of availability and acquisition cost, to me, I would describe the shortstop market as limited," Cashman said.

Pitching was a strength last season despite injuries that ravaged the rotation, and the club's current crop of starters urge both promise and pause going into 2015. Masahiro Tanaka, Michael Pineda and CC Sabathia each come with question marks, prompting the Yanks to look for at least one hurler to firm up the starting five.

They have thus far steered clear of top arms like Jon Lester, Max Scherzer and James Shields, with buzz from the Bronx indicating that the club would prefer not to write another massive check after spending nearly $500 million on Brian McCann, Jacoby Ellsbury, Carlos Beltran and Tanaka last winter.

Whether that holds into January remains to be seen. At the moment, re-signing Brandon McCarthy, who was 7-5 with a 2.89 ERA in 14 starts for New York in 2014, has been identified as one objective. The Yanks have not ruled out the idea of bringing back Hiroki Kuroda on a one-year contract.

"We're looking at smart ways to improve our club. I guess I can say that much," Cashman said.

In the bullpen, the Yankees have maintained contact in talks with closer David Robertson. Reportedly, Robertson and agent Scott Leventhal are seeking a four-year pact that could make Robertson the highest-paid closer in history.

"They're in the driver's seat, as a free agent," Cashman said.

The Yanks think highly of Robertson, who converted 39 of 44 save chances in his first season as a full-time closer. They will weigh that affinity against All-Star Dellin Betances' emergence in the setup role, a possible run at left-hander Andrew Miller and the fact that the Yankees would receive Draft compensation if Robertson signs elsewhere.

Wilson to wear pinstripes 1:41

Anthony Castrovince points out what the Yankees' trade for reliever Justin Wilson will mean for the team's bullpen in 2015

There have been a series of smaller moves completed: re-signing outfielder Chris Young as depth, swapping catcher Francisco Cervelli to the Pirates for left-hander Justin Wilson and inking pitchers Andrew Bailey and Jose De Paula.

In evaluating his offseason progress, Cashman recently said, "It's certainly taking its time, but it's been busy."

As such, he has been sticking to his normal playbook: hours before touching down at the Winter Meetings in San Diego, Cashman again plans to rappel down the side of the 22-story Landmark Building in Stamford, Conn., taking part in the city's Heights and Lights Festival.

It's a task that Cashman has been able to handle without much issue in years past, and as the Yankees look ahead to having their 2015 roster in place, their hope is that Cashman will be able to stick his landings in the negotiating room as well.

"If we can run into a few things we can target that will make us better, I think we can be right back in the playoff mix," Cashman said.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Yanks reportedly in 'serious pursuit' of Miller

NEW YORK -- The Yankees are in discussions with free-agent left-hander Andrew Miller, according to multiple reports, indicating that they aim to maintain their bullpen as a strength of the club moving forward.

ESPN was the first to report that the Yankees are in "serious pursuit" of Miller, who was a combined 5-5 with a 2.02 ERA in 73 appearances this past season for the Red Sox and Orioles, striking out 103 with 17 walks and 33 hits in 62 1/3 innings.

The Yankees have not commented on the reports. The pitcher's agent, Mark Rodgers, told the New York Post that negotiations are underway with several clubs and did not characterize the Yankees as front-runners.

"I am talking to several teams about Andrew, and it has been fairly widely reported that the Yankees are one of the teams interested," Rodgers told the newspaper. "They are still interested, but I will not elaborate on the talks. There is a natural progression ongoing and we are sorting through the issues."

The Red Sox and Tigers have also been reported to be interested in the 29-year-old Miller, who was dealt by Boston to Baltimore at the Trade Deadline in July. ESPN reported on Monday that the Dodgers, like the Yankees, also were in "serious pursuit" of the free-agent left-hander.

A pursuit of Miller could suggest that the Yankees' hopes of re-signing closer David Robertson are dimming. Robertson turned down a qualifying offer from the team last month and is said to be in the market for a deal approaching four years and $50 million. If Robertson signs elsewhere, the Yankees would receive Draft-pick compensation.

Despite an underwhelming offensive season, a strong bullpen helped keep the Yankees in the postseason chase into September. Rookie All-Star Dellin Betances excelled while setting up for Robertson, who converted 39 of 44 save chances in his first season in Mariano Rivera's old role.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Yanks facing decisions on six arbitration-eligible pitchers

Rogers, 29, is the likeliest non-tender candidate. He joined the Yankees as a waiver claim from the Blue Jays last July 31, logging a 4.68 ERA in 18 appearances. While the Yankees have liked Rogers' live arm for some time, he earned $1.85 million and could tempt the club to search for more cost-effective options to round out its pitching staff.

Another choice revolves around Huff, a 30-year-old left-hander, who posted a 1.85 ERA and 3-1 record in 30 appearances for the Yankees. Having worked mostly as a long reliever, Huff's contract was purchased from the Giants in early June and earned $505,000 in 2014, making him a borderline non-tender call for the Yanks.

Their other four players seem to be good bets to receive contracts. Kelley, 30, had a 4.53 ERA in 59 appearances in 2014, showing improved strikeout and walk rates over his first Yankees season despite missing time with a back injury. Kelley earned $1.765 million and recently said he is optimistic about a new contract.

"I would assume if everything plays out normally, barring any freakish signings or trades, I'll be back with the Yankees," Kelley said. "I'm not worried at all about it, but it's also baseball, and I've been through the process a few times. I know sometimes things happen that you can't control, but I'm pretty relaxed and just waiting for the process to play out."

Nova seems to be a lock to receive a deal; managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner has spoken several times about expecting to get the right-hander back from Tommy John surgery and plugged into the big league rotation sometime after May 2015. Nova will turn 28 in January, and he had an 8.27 ERA in four starts this past year, for which he earned $3.3 million.

Pineda, who will turn 26 in January, is in line for a jump over his $538,475 salary, having shown dominant stuff when healthy. Making his first Yankees appearances after two years on the shelf, Pineda was 5-5 with a 1.89 ERA in 13 starts and projects to slot high in the rotation alongside Masahiro Tanaka and CC Sabathia next season.

Phelps, 28, earned $541,425 in 2014 and was 5-5 with a 4.38 ERA in 32 games (17 starts), bouncing between the rotation and the bullpen to fill several roles based on the Yanks' needs. He projects to head into 2015 as a swingman option, capable of competing for a starting slot, while also helping in relief.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Inbox: Will Yanks make big-ticket acquisition?

One of the most entertaining parts of a winter during the George Steinbrenner era was to see how The Boss would respond to big news coming out of Boston. You don't have to roll the clock back too far to recall Steinbrenner swooping in to steal Jose Contreras out of the Sox's grasp, prompting then-Boston GM Theo Epstein to supposedly destroy a chair in his hotel suite. When the Red Sox shelled out to import Daisuke Matsuzaka a few years later, the Yankees responded by writing a large check to Kei Igawa. (That one didn't work out.)

That said, the Yankees operate differently under Hal Steinbrenner; the offseason plan isn't altered to answer what the Red Sox -- or, for that matter, the Blue Jays -- have done in the division. The Yankees have needs and they intend to fill them, but their shopping list isn't being altered just because Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez now call Fenway Park home.

Hoch on Yankees' bullpen moves 3:25

MLB.com Yankees reporter Bryan Hoch joins Hot Stove to discuss David Robertson and Andrew Miller's chances of wearing pinstripes in 2015

The wish list has been pretty well-stated at this point. The Yankees need to upgrade the left side of their infield, want to add at least one starting pitcher and must address the bullpen, especially if David Robertson pitches elsewhere in 2015.

Thus far, the Yankees have acted as though they spent their big money last offseason (nearly $500 million on Brian McCann, Jacoby Ellsbury, Carlos Beltran and Masahiro Tanaka alone), but they've also shown willingness to lay in the weeds and make a January splash in years past. For that reason, I still wouldn't rule out a signing on the Max Scherzer level.

What is so hard about getting Robertson signed? He should have been signed for four years before the season or in October.
-- Mark A., Bismarck, N.D.

Hindsight is 20/20, I suppose. At this time last year, there were legitimate questions about Robertson's ability to handle the closer's role -- remember, he'd converted only eight of 18 save opportunities during his career, and it wasn't until late January that the Yankees actually named Robertson their closer. There was a thought that they were keeping options open and could grab a guy like Grant Balfour or Fernando Rodney.

Nelson on free-agent relievers 4:00

MLB.com's Tim McMaster and Jeff Nelson discuss David Robertson leading a strong selection of free-agent relievers

Robertson has said he might have entertained a hometown discount at that time, but the Yanks never approached him, so he set his sights on testing the open market. It turned out to be a wise decision for him; he's the top available closer out there, and whether it's from the Yankees or not, he'll probably get the four-year deal that he reportedly desires.

It's been a while since we heard about the Yankees dismissing Kevin Long as their hitting coach. How far are the Yankees from replacing him?
-- John W., Toms River, N.J.

Yes, it has nearly been two months, and the positions previously held by Long and infield coach Mick Kelleher are still vacant. The Yankees interviewed a new candidate last week, according to GM Brian Cashman, who did not want to reveal that person's identity. At the time, Cashman said the Yankees were at least a week away from making a coaching hire.

Here's what we do know: The Yankees interviewed Dave Magadan, but chose not to hire him, Chili Davis chose the Red Sox over the Yankees, and Raul Ibanez is no longer interested in the position. The Yankees have also interviewed Double-A hitting coach Marcus Thames and Minor League hitting coordinator James Rowson.

What are the Yankees plans for Martin Prado, starter or backup?
-- Mike H., New Haven, Conn.

He'll be a starter, somewhere, as the roster is currently comprised. If Alex Rodriguez comes into camp and impresses enough to earn the third-base job, Prado could play second base. Prado might also be used at third, giving prospects Rob Refsnyder, who's the Yankees' No. 6-ranked prospect, and Jose Pirela a chance to win the second-base job. They could use Prado in right field if Beltran has injury issues like he did in '14. The Yanks also saw Prado play a few innings in left field. By the way, Prado is said to have recovered from his season-ending appendectomy.

Player Profile: Martin Prado 5:06

After being acquired by the Yankees at the 2014 trade deadline, spark plug Martin Prado contributed both offensively and defensively.

Do you see the Yankees making a run at Jimmy Rollins? If so, what kind of package would they need to offer?
-- David E., Portland, Maine

This idea was hit with cold water last week; ESPN reported that the Yankees checked in on Rollins, but were turned off by the Phillies' high asking price and have since moved on. According to that report, the Yankees only offered a utility player in exchange for Rollins, who just turned 36 and is due $11 million in 2015.

What are the plans for shortstop? Are the Yankees really planning to go the Brendan Ryan route?
-- Bob B., Alexandria, Va.

I strongly doubt it. The talk since the season ended is that the Yankees must find a player who'd be an upgrade over Ryan, who is a terrific defensive player but doesn't bring much with the bat. They've been trying the trade front without any luck. If they choose to fill shortstop via free agency, they could try to squeeze a bounceback year out of Stephen Drew or pursue the likes of Asdrubal Cabrera and Jed Lowrie.

Who do you think will play right field next season?
-- Nancee T., Oldsmar, Fla.

The Yankees entered the winter locked into the idea that Beltran would return from his elbow surgery and be a much different player than the one you saw this past season. All reports thus far have been positive, and with two years and $30 million remaining on his contract, the Yanks certainly hope that continues to be the case. If Beltran can't play the outfield and needs to spend most of the year DHing again, it would create a logjam with A-Rod and Mark Teixeira also needing reps there.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Yankees must counter Red Sox's big moves

Forgive them for being tempted. That was an impressive double the Red Sox pulled off by signing both Hanley Ramirez and Pablo Sandoval. And Boston made it clear there's more to come, because the club intends to add two veteran starting pitchers -- including Lester, the hottest free agent on the market right now.

If the Red Sox can pull that off, they'd be nicely positioned to trade for a starter -- say, Cole Hamels.

Just for grins, let's say they do exactly that. How does that change the American League East race?

Yes, that's a rhetorical question.

The Red Sox would have transformed themselves from a last-place team that lost 91 games to possibly favorites. If you lined 'em up, you might have:
1. Red Sox
2. Orioles
3. Blue Jays
4. Yankees
5. Rays

There's a large back story with every team, especially since we're still so early in the comings and goings.

For instance, the Orioles. They'll be favored to win again if Boston can't pull off a Lester/Hamels double play, or something close. Baltimore has made fewer headlines, but that's the norm.

Executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette and his staff find players here, there and everywhere. To dismiss the O's would be silly. Even if they don't re-sign Nelson Cruz, they'll be getting Manny Machado, Matt Wieters and Chris Davis back. Has any club signed three players that good? Nope.

The Orioles also still have that Showalter guy -- that would be AL Manager of the Year Award winner Buck Showalter -- who once more in 2014 proved his greatness in a variety of areas. With 1,259 career victories, he's up to 36th (and counting) on the all-time list.

Anyway, the point is that we should not sleep on Baltimore, even though its biggest moves have been the re-signing of shortstop J.J. Hardy and the continued pursuit of its own guy, right fielder Nick Markakis.

The Blue Jays also aren't finished, even though they've checked the No. 1 thing off their shopping list with the signing of catcher Russell Martin. With a deep rotation, they're good enough to go play now. Senior vice president of baseball operations and general manager Alex Anthopoulos is hoping to upgrade at either second base or third, or perhaps both. If he does just one, Toronto could win the AL East in 2015.

And then there are the Yankees. Regardless of what senior vice president and general manager Brian Cashman does, there's going to be a large unknown quantity with the Yanks. For them to contend, they're probably going to need healthy, productive seasons from CC Sabathia, Carlos Beltran and Mark Teixeira.

Cashman's first priority seems to be the re-signing of third baseman Chase Headley, right-hander Brandon McCarthy and closer David Robertson. He also has to figure out shortstop, with Stephen Drew and others in the mix.

If Cashman brings those four players back onto his roster, the Yankees will be good enough to go play. Whether they'll be good enough to avoid a third straight season out of the playoffs is the interesting question.

The Yanks made their own big moves in free agency a year ago with the signings of Jacoby Ellsbury, Brian McCann and Carlos Beltran.

But it's a bottom-line business. The Yankees may not see a position player that would significantly upgrade their roster, but there are three starters -- Lester, Max Scherzer and James Shields -- who'd make virtually any team better.

Which teams are in on Lester? 3:44

MLB.com's Tim McMaster and Jeff Nelson discuss which teams could attempt to sign left-hander Jon Lester this offseason

With Lester the No. 1 target of several teams, including the Red Sox, the Yanks could alter the dynamics of two offseasons by grabbing his 200 innings and 200 strikeouts.

For now, at least, the Yankees say they're staying the course. Given that they usually get the people they want to get, it seems reasonable that Headley, Robertson and McCarthy will be back in the Bronx in 2015.

Headley is a hotter commodity with Sandoval off the market, but the Yanks say they'll go only so far. If they don't land him, they say they're prepared to shift Martin Prado from second to third and to put one of their kids at second.

But you just know that today they're at least batting around the possibility of responding. While the Orioles and Rays have been able to contend without going crazy with spending, Red Sox-Yankees has always had its own dynamic, that of punch/counterpunch.

Your move, Yankees.

Richard Justice is a columnist for MLB.com. Read his blog, Justice4U. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Early Hot Stove feast in AL East, but room left for dessert

The Yankees and Orioles have been relatively quiet, but this is a wide open division, and we should expect action from all of them, particularly the Yanks, who will likely be in the mix for one of the remaining big-name starting pitchers.

As we recover from our collective turkey coma, here's a look at where every team in the AL East stands right now as the Winter Meetings slowly become visible above the horizon.

BALTIMORE ORIOLES
What the Orioles have done: The O's have made a few Minor League signings, but they have been fairly quiet in filling any major holes. The club continues to have discussions with free-agent outfielder Nick Markakis.

Markakis wins second Gold Glove 1:00

Nick Markakis is named the Gold Glove Award winner for the second time in his career for his defensive prowess with the Orioles in 2014

What the Orioles need to address: Markakis is an important player to watch, and with Cruz leaving for a four-year deal with Seattle, the O's are in the market for a power-hitting outfielder. But they would also like to add another starting pitcher and fill the hole vacated by lefty reliever Andrew Miller, who will be too costly for Baltimore to retain.
-- Brittany Ghiroli

BOSTON RED SOX
What the Red Sox have done: The Sox have made two impact signings to upgrade an offense that was among the worst in the Majors in 2014, adding Ramirez and Sandoval. It is a reunion for Ramirez, who came up through Boston's farm system before being dealt to the Marlins for Mike Lowell and Josh Beckett nine years ago. Ramirez has one of the most well-rounded bats in the game when he stays healthy. His presence in left field could spell the end of Yoenis Cespedes in Boston.

Pablo, Hanley join Red Sox 2:32

It was a big day in Boston as Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez were introduced as the newest members of the Red Sox

Sandoval is a switch-hitter and stronger from the left side. This is a good thing because the Sox were in desperate need of another productive lefty bat. He gives the club production at third base. In the latter years of the contract, Sandoval could transition to designated hitter when David Ortiz retires.

What the Red Sox need to address: The offense looks far better than it did last year, but the pitching staff needs some attention. Clay Buchholz and Joe Kelly are the only current members of the roster who are sure things for the 2015 rotation. General manager Ben Cherington still needs to plug the holes that were created with the trades of Jon Lester and John Lackey last July. Lester could actually replace himself, given Boston's interest in bringing the lefty back to town as a free agent. A trade with the Phillies for Cole Hamels is another intriguing possibility. In fact, the Sox have quite a few trade chips, particularly in the outfield, to address their pitching needs. They also remain on the hunt for a lefty reliever.
-- Ian Browne

NEW YORK YANKEES
What the Yankees have done: Following Alex Rodriguez's reinstatement to the active roster at the conclusion of the World Series, the Yankees have made a series of smaller moves. In November, New York re-signed outfielder Chris Young to an incentive-laden $2.5 million deal, acquired left-handed reliever Justin Wilson from the Pirates in exchange for catcher Francisco Cervelli, and signed right-hander Andrew Bailey to a Minor League deal. They also sold the rights for infielder Zelous Wheeler to Japan's Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles in exchange for $350,000.

Yankees Acquire Justin Wilson 3:14

Yankees bolster bullpen with the acquisition of hard throwing left-handed reliever Justin Wilson

What the Yankees need to address: General manager Brian Cashman has stated that he intends to upgrade the left side of the infield, unwilling to count on A-Rod as an everyday third baseman and hoping to find a better option than Brendan Ryan at shortstop. Chase Headley is thought to be New York's top target at third base, while the trade market is the preferred avenue to find Derek Jeter's successor. The Yankees also have interest in adding at least one starting pitcher, hoping to bring Brandon McCarthy back while waiting to hear word on Hiroki Kuroda's plans. Thus far, New York has stayed away from top free agents like Lester and Max Scherzer. The club also has maintained talks with closer David Robertson, who declined its $15.3 million qualifying offer in favor of seeking a longer commitment.
-- Bryan Hoch

TAMPA BAY RAYS
What the Rays have done: They have traded starter Jeremy Hellickson and relievers Joel Peralta and Cesar Ramos for prospects. In addition, they signed veteran reliever Ernesto Frieri and designated for assignment veteran catcher Jose Molina and infielder Sean Rodriguez. The Rays will have to eat Molina's $2.75 million contract for 2015, but they dodged the issue of tendering Rodriguez a contract (he made $1.475 million this past season) by the Dec. 2 deadline. Finally, the Rays have spent the bulk of the offseason re-shuffling their front office and looking for a replacement for Maddon, who exercised an opt-out clause in his contract and will now manage the Cubs. Team president Matt Silverman took over as president of baseball operations after Friedman left to take a new position with the Dodgers. They narrowed their initial manager search to 10 candidates, all of whom were interviewed. That list has since been whittled down to three: Kevin Cash, Don Wakamatsu and Raul Ibanez.

Rays narrow managerial search 3:06

MLB.com Rays reporter Bill Chastain talks about Kevin Cash, Raul Ibanez and Don Wakamatsu emerging as the candidates for the club's manager

What the Rays need to address: They will begin their interviews with the final three managerial candidates on Dec. 1, and they could have a manager in place by the Winter Meetings, which begin Dec. 8 in San Diego. The team's starting rotation, bullpen and infield seem to be in order, but there are many options remaining in the outfield, including: Matt Joyce, Wil Myers, Desmond Jennings, Brandon Guyer, David DeJesus, Kevin Kiermaier and Mikie Mahtook. With Molina's departure, the Rays again look thin at catcher, with just Ryan Hanigan and Curt Casali currently in the mix. So don't be surprised if they sign or trade for catching help.

The non-tender date could bring some interesting results, particularly where Joyce is concerned, since he made $3.7 million in 2014. Even if he is tendered a contract, he could still be traded before Spring Training. The Rays must also figure out some way to generate more runs in 2015 after having lackluster results on offense in '14. In order to do this, they must assess which players will return to form and which ones will not. Once they have a better idea about that question, they can try to address how to improve their offense. As usual, expect the Rays to sign one or two veteran starters and relievers to help with depth.
-- Bill Chastain

TORONTO BLUE JAYS
What the Blue Jays have done: The Jays made a tremendous splash in the middle of November when they signed Canadian catcher Russell Martin to a five-year contract worth $82 million. It was the largest free-agent deal handed out in the organization's history. They followed that by trading for All-Star third baseman Josh Donaldson, who finished fourth in MVP voting in 2013, and sending another Canadian, Brett Lawrie, to the A's in addition to two pitchers, Kendall Graveman and Sean Nolin, and shortstop Franklin Barreto.

The Jays have traded outfielder Anthony Gose to the Tigers for second-base prospect Devon Travis, and sent designated hitter Adam Lind to the Brewers for right-hander Marco Estrada. They also parted ways with Brandon Morrow, Dustin McGowan and Colby Rasmus.

Martin signing impacts Blue Jays 2:15

MLB.com Blue Jays reporter Gregor Chisholm discusses how the signing of Russell Martin could affect the club's offseason plans

What the Blue Jays need to address: Toronto's already had a busy offseason, but there may be more work left to be done. The Blue Jays have noticeable holes to fill in the bullpen and left field. General manager Alex Anthopoulos appears to have at least $20 million at his disposal, but that number could be increased further by trading former starting catcher Dioner Navarro, left-hander J.A. Happ and to a lesser extent R.A. Dickey or Mark Buehrle. Free agent Melky Cabrera remains a possible option in left, but the two sides have yet to find common ground in their contract negotiations.
-- Gregor Chisholm

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Yanks reportedly in 'serious pursuit' of Miller

NEW YORK -- The Yankees are in discussions with free-agent left-hander Andrew Miller, according to multiple reports, indicating that they aim to maintain their bullpen as a strength of the club moving forward.

ESPN was the first to report that the Yankees are in "serious pursuit" of Miller, who was a combined 5-5 with a 2.02 ERA in 73 appearances this past season for the Red Sox and Orioles, striking out 103 with 17 walks and 33 hits in 62 1/3 innings.

The Yankees have not commented on the reports. The pitcher's agent, Mark Rodgers, told the New York Post that negotiations are underway with several clubs and did not characterize the Yankees as front-runners.

"I am talking to several teams about Andrew, and it has been fairly widely reported that the Yankees are one of the teams interested," Rodgers told the newspaper. "They are still interested, but I will not elaborate on the talks. There is a natural progression ongoing and we are sorting through the issues."

The Red Sox and Tigers have also been reported to be interested in the 29-year-old Miller, who was dealt by Boston to Baltimore at the Trade Deadline in July.

A pursuit of Miller could suggest that the Yankees' hopes of re-signing closer David Robertson are dimming. Robertson turned down a qualifying offer from the team last month and is said to be in the market for a deal approaching four years and $50 million. If Robertson signs elsewhere, the Yankees would receive Draft-pick compensation.

Despite an underwhelming offensive season, a strong bullpen helped keep the Yankees in the postseason chase into September. Rookie All-Star Dellin Betances excelled while setting up for Robertson, who converted 39 of 44 save chances in his first season in Mariano Rivera's old role.

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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Family, turkey, football sit atop Kelley's holiday list

"It's got whipped cream and other things in it; it's like a big spread," Kelley said in a recent telephone interview. "It's creamy and thick and it's got cherries and grapes and apples. It's like a smorgasbord of fruit all mixed up, and it's probably the most delicious thing.

"She used to make a whole extra batch for me to take back to college with me after Thanksgiving. That's definitely my favorite of all time."

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The 30-year-old Kelley has a deeper appreciation for the holiday season now, with those days of Tupperware containers at Austin Peay State University safely stored in air-tight memories.

Having just completed his sixth big league season, Kelley was busy stringing up Christmas lights earlier this week and is looking forward to spending the holiday in Tennessee with his family.

"It means a lot," Kelley said. "It's a time for friends and family to get together and spend time, and now that I've got two little boys that are getting older, teaching them the meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas, it's a good family time. I really enjoy it."

Growing up, Kelley recalls looking forward to an afternoon he'd spend with his extended family, digging forks into early dinners filled with stuffing, green beans, mashed potatoes, macaroni and soft buttery rolls.

"We'd get so stuffed and so full," Kelley said. "Then we'd go outside and throw a football or throw horseshoes, depending on the weather if it was cold or nice. We'd be outside for the day and basically we'd heat the stuff up again and do it again for dinner."

Football is still part of the equation, but Kelley plans on resting his right arm from spiral duty, still a few weeks away from picking up a baseball in preparation for Spring Training. His attention will be more closely focused on Bears at Lions, Eagles at Cowboys and Seahawks at 49ers.

"I tend to just try to eat and watch as much football as possible nowadays," Kelley said. "Now that they usually have two or three games versus when they used to have just one back when I was younger; any chance you can just sit around and do nothing and watch football is a great day."

There will inevitably be some baseball talk during dinner, with family members stoking the Hot Stove and wondering what the Yankees will do between now and the report date for pitchers and catchers. Thus far, there has not been much noise out of the Bronx, but Kelley is not concerned.

"We've basically got the team already in place to do it," he said. "You saw it all last year: a lot of guys just didn't play to their baseball cards, so to speak. It was a disappointing year for the whole team, including myself. I think if we refocus and do what we're capable of doing, nothing more, whether we add a lot or not this offseason I think the pieces are in place to make a run and be a playoff team."

Part of the Yankees' offseason plan includes re-signing closer David Robertson, with whom Kelley has exchanged recent text messages. Kelley ribbed Robertson about turning down the Yankees' $15.3 million qualifying offer and said that Robertson seems to be in no rush to make a move, allowing his market to play out.

"I know he loves New York, I know he's close with Mariano [Rivera] and wants to kind of follow in Mariano's footsteps," Kelley said. "I'm sure there's a big part of him that probably wants to stay in New York, but he's got to do what's best and see what's out there. That's where he's at in his career right now."

Kelley said that he is also looking forward to learning what his own future holds. The non-tender deadline is Dec. 2, and Kelley said that he has been "pretty relaxed" in waiting for the process to play out, assuming that he will be back for a third season with the Yanks in 2015.

"Me personally, I'll be thankful if I sign back with the Yankees and this arbitration process goes smoothly, and I end up pitching for another year in New York and in pinstripes," Kelley said. "Then making a playoff run -- that's what I'll be thankful for."

Bryan Hoch is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @bryanhoch and read his MLBlog, Bombers Beat. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

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