SI.com's Jon Heyman reports that the Yankees are contemplating offering Alex Rodriguez a 5-6 year extension at $30M per year, in an attempt to keep him from opting out of the remaining 3 years (at $90M; partially paid by the Texas Rangers) on his contract. It would keep him to age 40 or 41. Heyman also mentions the Cubs as a possible suitor, if Rodriguez opts out, likely only because of the Cubs' revenues and not because they would actually go after him. And for that amount of money and for that long, he can stay in New York.

If Lou Piniella's hiring could do this, his hiring is worth it. At least until it isn't. ESPN.com's Gene Wojciechowski reports: "Sources familiar with the situation told ESPN.com that Piniella, who is extremely close to [Alex] Rodriguez, expects the Cubs to aggressively pursue the 10-time All-Star. The 63-year-old manager and the 31-year-old Rodriguez have what amounts to a quasi-father/son relationship; Rodriguez was managed in Seattle by Piniella from 1994-2000. It is that relationship -- and the tantalizing talent of Rodriguez -- that has prompted Piniella to want to explore a trade with the Yankees."