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Yankees rotate rotations

The Yankees want to change their pitching rotation. So far, their plans remain in theory, as they continue efforts to trade Randy Johnson, have lost free agent Barry Zito who signed with the Giants and pursue Roger Clemens who still hasn`t decided if he will return for another season. If the Yankees succeed in unloading Johnson, they will not only need Clemens, but need him earlier in the season than when he joined the Houston Astros in 2006.

Johnson, who has a no-trade clause, must agree to be traded. He has not fared well in his Yankees career, and has failed to bring them a World Series title. His remark to team management that he might prefer to play near his home in Arizona has given trade talks with the Diamondbacks some plausibility. Arizona must find the cash to pay Johnson`s $16 million salary and possibly give the pitcher a one year extension worth $12 million.

Zito signed a seven year contract with the Giants for $126-million. Although they were willing to open their wallets to land Zito, the Yankees were not able to clear the way with a deal for Johnson, thus losing the chance to sign the sough after pitcher. They will have to trade the Big Unit in order to sign the Rocket, not only to avoid paying to big salaries but also because the two do not get along well, so is said around the league.