Show Me Zee Money, Pt. II

• Ok, so Carlos Zambrano was misunderstood. Clearly. He only wants money close to what Barry Zito got from the Giants.


• Speaking of Zito, it is a bit weird seeing him in the San Fran uniform. And according to pitching coach Dave Righetti, the new colors are not the only thing Zito changed this offseason. Cause for concern in SF?

• I haven't mentioned it yet, but here's hoping for a strong, productive and, most of all, healthy season for Jon Lester. His progress, and prognosis, are encouraging.

• Will this guy ever avoid injury??? The Cubs should have a clause in his contract that keeps him away from scissors, knives, or anything that has a sharp edge to it. On the bright side, he is in better shape, so maybe he'll finally win 20 games. Oh wait, he's now a middle reliever. Never mind.

• ESPN has its annual look at the '07 season today. No big surprises, but I was struck by just how depleted the Cardinals pitching staff is as they try to defend their championship, and by how non-existent the Nationals rotation is. As of this moment, there is oft-injured ace John Patterson and four open slots. That ain't gonna cut it in the NL East.


• Kevin Youkilis (right) is a changed man (or is he?). Will his slender physique translate into a .300 season?

• It will be fun to follow the Yankees moves this year from their own back yard, and I am especially glad for the NY Times' Bats Blog. Tyler Kepner has committed to keeping this online journal throughout the season, and it should be interesting (Ben Shipgel will also write about the Mets). Today, Kepner writes about the "surly" Carl Pavano, who, in my opinion, holds the one of the keys to the Yankees success this year. Next to Bernie's absence and Mo's displeasure, things sure seem awfully unhappy around Legend's Field this spring.

• Just watch this.