Derek Jeter And Cliff Lee Lead Way in Frenzy of Misleading Reports

As the MLB rumor mill continues to churn, many fans are beginning to show a disdain towards the carousel-style news surrounding their favorite players.

Just ask Philadelphia Phillies’ fans about Jayson Werth updates.

This week—particularly the past 48 hours—there is even more confusing media frenzied news to keep fans on the edge of their seat, as they wait with baited breath to find out the latest whispers.

But initial reports often become misleading if not interpreted properly, which in turn, can be emulated by the chain of articles that feed off of them.

Leading the way is the reported deal that the Yankees apparently offered Cliff Lee a six-year $140 million deal which is now being refuted by NY Daily News’ Mark Feinsand.

What is true is that the Rangers curiously offered Lee arbitration and are likely to match any offer made by any team currently hunting Cliff lee.

Another major storyline leading the way is the possibility of Derek Jeter not returning to New York, as GM Brian Cashman was reported telling Newark Star-Ledger reporter Ken Davidoff: "He should be nothing but a New York Yankee. He chooses not to be."

This isn’t exactly solid news as it can also be construed that Cashman is reacting poorly to the Yankees current offer of three years, $45 million—turned down by Jeter—which Jeter thinks he is worth more than.

According to SI.com’s Jon Heyman, the Yankees plan to sweeten their deal, but no details were currently available at the time of this article.

And finally, Jason Stark of ESPN.com is reporting that “one source” says that talks between Javier Vazquez and the Florida Marlins are “getting hot.”

This is curious news considering Vazquez had a terrible season last year, and is widely viewed as being way past his prime at 34 producing a 5.32 ERA in 31 appearances as a Yankee.

Other reported clubs interested are the Cubs, Rockies, Nationals and Cardinals.

There is also a report from Stark—same article—that Vazquez declined a $20 million offer over two years, but that he is looking for a one year deal only.

A very curious decline indeed, but you can bank on thing: Vazquez will ultimately lead the way in MLB headlines in the coming days.

Of course, everything I mentioned could significantly change with Derek Jeter suddenly deciding to play for the New York Giants; Cliff Lee—after revealing his "true" sports love: soccer—deciding to play for Manchester United; and Javier Vazquez deciding to retire on the beaches of Florida, but agreeing to don a Marlins jersey as a team spokeperson for one year while sipping martinis and soaking in the sun, right?