The Sommer Frieze

Jose Veras signed a minor league deal with Florida. Last year he was cut by the Yanks and Indians.

Eric Byrnes signs with the Mariners.

More talk on MLBTR about the Yanks still discussing minor league deals with possibly Thames, Gomes and Baldelli. Financially, they probably are tapped out and minor league deals would be it.

Interesting post by Chad Jennings at LoHud. Remember that Cervelli, who is slated to backup Posada, is still not 25 yet. Montero (AAA) is 20; Romine (AA) 21. Here is Jennings talking to Mark Newman of the Yankees front office:

Speaking of catchers, Newman said Gary Sanchez is already hitting and working out in Tampa. “What a tool package,” Newman said. “Wow. Arm strength. Power.” I told Newman that I’ve heard him get excited about Sanchez before. “He’s better now,” Newman said.

Sanchez when signed this summer (he hasn’t played a minor league game yet) he was just 16. He may be 17 now, I don’t know.

What a nice assortment of catchers to choose from for a replacement for the 38 year old Posada. Remember that NO team can match the Yankees five of Berra, Dickey, Munson, Howard and Posada.

There are a couple of others with potential, but just listing these four (and Montero, probably followed by Sanchez are the bats of the four) is saying something. 

Continue that catching lineage, guys.