Lowell To Provide Stability At First In Pinstripes?

While the Yankees are finishing a contract with third baseman Alex Rodruguez for 10 years and about 275 million dollars, the Yankees have their eye on another free agent thrid baseman in Mike Lowell as well, who is not only their former prospect from the mid 1990's but is the free agent of their arch rival Boston Red Sox and this years World Series MVP with the Sox.

ESPN is reporting that the Red Sox has offered Lowell a three year contract worth 40 million dollars, while the Yankees have upped the ante with a four year deal worth as much as 60 million dollars to give them a stable first baseman.

The Yankees have had a constant rotation at first base since they signed Jason Giambi. Between Giambi's physical problems as well as the fact that he is a mediocre first baseman at best, Giambi has become more of a back-up first baseman and full-time DH.

Last season, whether for just one inning or for the majority of their season, the Yankees first baseman discluding Giambi included Josh Phelps, Wil Nieves, Jorge Posada, Andy Phillips, Doug Mientkiewicz, Miguel Cairo, Johnny Damon, Shelley Duncan and Wilson Betemit.

Lowell has expressed that he wanted to ink a four year deal which is something that the Red Sox have yet to give in to. The Yankees have given in to his four year desire but to play a new position.

Lowell has also expressed intrest in playing for the Phillies. However, The Phils may have a cheaper third base alternative by trading for current Cardinals third baseman, Scott Rolen and maybe more importantly, have not made a formal offer to Lowell as of yet.