MLB Offseason Report: Latest on the New York Yankees and Cliff Lee Talks

The New York Yankees fan base was in a state of bedlam yesterday afternoon, when there were reports on Twitter circulating and stating that Cliff Lee had rejected the Yankees offer. Immediately, the reaction was that Brian Cashman should throw more money in the deal. But later on, the rumors settled down as many did not know what to believe. Beat writers told fans to be careful what was out there and what they read. 

Brian Cashman has not taken a trip to visit Cliff Lee in Arkansas since his last visit. The Star Ledger is reporting that Brian Cashman may be willing to take yet another trip. The last time Cashman visited, there were reports that an apology was made to Cliff Lee's wife for certain fan behavior during the playoffs. Only good can come out of a visit. 

The Yankees and Texas Rangers are playing a game where they are only waiting on Cliff Lee's decision. Lee is the only person in control right now. There is not much that the Yankees front office can do; other than maybe add to their offer. It would be a risky move to make. 

Yesterday, there were sources reporting that the Red Sox are out on the Cliff Lee sweepstakes. It was mostly just to get their names in contention to up some offers. Their focus was mostly on Carl Crawford. Cliff Lee served as a smoke screen in their negotiations.

Yankee fans can only be optimistic about Lee at this point. There will be some doubters, but some people in the front office (mainly Hal Steinbrenner) are channelling their inner George Steinbrenner. Steinbrenner expressed his optimism and said that the Yankees are only moving forward and that is what makes them the more attractive offer on the table.

Cliff Lee is in control of the clock and when he makes his decision.