Andruw Jones remains a logical free agent for the Yankees. He hits right-handed. He crushed left-handed pitching last season. He easily could take over the part-time role that previously belonged to Marcus Thames.

The Yankees, though, are balking at Jones’ current asking price, major-league sources say. Thus, the team remains interested in another of Scott Boras’ free-agent clients, Johnny Damon.

An agreement with Jones is more likely; a financial compromise shouldn't be difficult, and Damon would prefer to play every day. Damon, a left-handed hitter, still handles left-handed pitching reasonably well. He batted .275/.365/.375 against left-handers last season, while Jones batted .256/.373/.558.

The Rays, too, are interested in Jones, but rank him behind other free-agent options, sources say. Damon, Vladimir Guerrero, Manny Ramirez, Troy Glaus, Jason Giambi, Russell Branyan, Nick Johnson and Jermaine Dye are all still on the market.

— Ken Rosenthal