Saturday’s Quick Bits: Jeter & CC, Pettitte, Torre

Here we go:

1. Derek Jeter has spoken with CC Sabathia on behalf of the Yankees. Without Joe Torre, I admit, it’s slightly more difficult to lure free agents, as Torre was a pro at it. However, Jeter, Posada, the money, the city, all of these things should work in recruiting CC.

2. Andy Pettitte corrected the record at Joe Torre’s Safe At Home Foundation gala, stating that he’s not looking for a 2-year deal and that a 1-year deal would be optimal. He has yet to receive a contract offer and I believe the reason for the wait is Mike Mussina’s current status. The Yankees are still waiting to hear a definitive answer from him or his agent, on his retirement.

3. Also, from Kat O’Brien:

Torre said he had been invited by the Yankees to a Saturday event at which Bronx high schoolers and a few members of the ‘98 team will transfer dirt from the home plate area at the old Yankee Stadium to the new Yankee Stadium. He’s not going to make it due to a scheduling conflict with a brunch for his foundation, but it seemed like an olive branch of sorts.

I reported on this event about a week ago (it’s supposed to be today). It’s nice to know that the Yankees invited Torre. O’Brien’s info is new and interesting, as she mentions that “Bronx high schoolers” and “a few members of the ‘98 team” will be involved. When we first heard about this, we were told that Posada, Jeter, Pettitte and Mariano would be bringing home plate from the old stadium to the new one. Maybe these 4 will bring the plate and other members of the ‘98 team will be there to transfer dirt? I would hope that A-Rod could be involved, somehow. Sometimes these nostalgic throwbacks single out other players and A-Rod, with his temperament and a 10-year contract in toe, should probably do something (maybe he can carry over one of the foul poles… hey, it’s just a thought).

4. Lastly, O’Brien let us know that Mariano River and Jorge are rehabbing well. Jorge believes he’ll be ready before Opening Day (he’ll throw in early December) and Mariano also believes he’ll be fine for spring training (he’ll actually throw in January for rehab, which is new for him since he typically doesn’t throw until ST).