$40 million minor leaguer?

Posted December 11, 2007 10:00 pm

Associated Press

Carl Pavano was asked by the New York Yankees to accept a minor-league contract and come off their big-league roster.

A $39.95 million bust since signing with the Yankees as a free agent before the 2005 season, Pavano had rotator cuff surgery June 5. New York is not counting on him to be available next year.

"Right now we're just having preliminary conversations," Pavano's new agent, Tom O'Connell, said Tuesday. "Carl is contemplating possibly accepting a minor-league contract if they choose to release him. At this point, neither the Yankees or Carl have come to any decisions."

Hampered by shoulder, back, elbow and rib injuries, Pavano went 5-6 in 19 starts with the Yankees, including 1-0 with a 4.76 ERA in 2 starts this year.

"He's having solid success right now with his rehab," O'Connell said. "I'd say there is realistic possibility he could be back on a major-league mound by sometime middle of the summer."

O'Connell said a minor-league deal could be harmful.

"You're giving up your major league rights under the collective bargaining agreement if you sign a minor-league contract," he said. "There's a lot of advantages from being on a major-league roster as opposed to being on a minor-league roster."

Monroe back with Twins: Outfielder Craig Monroe and the Minnesota Twins agreed to a one-year, $3.82 million, contract, a cut of 20 percent from his $4,775,000 salary this year with the Cubs.

Monroe split this year with the Detroit Tigers and Cubs, who acquired him Aug. 23. The 30-year-old hit a combined .219 with 12 homers and 59 RBI.

3-year extension for Cook: The Colorado Rockies have grown fond of Aaron Cook's sinker, his ability to pitch deep into games -- when healthy -- and his clubhouse presence. So, the team finalized a new contract with Cook, one that guarantees him an additional $30 million over three seasons.

Cook went 8-7 with a 4.12 ERA in 25 starts for the NL champions this season.

Around the horn: Catcher Paul Lo Duca agreed to a one-year, $5 million deal with the Washington Nationals because he felt wanted -- and because there will be plenty of chances to face his old club, the New York Mets. A four-time all-star from 2003-06, Lo Duca hit .272 with 9 homers and a .311 on-base percentage last season. … Catcher Eric Munson and the Milwaukee Brewers agreed to a one-year, $525,000 contract that avoided salary arbitration.