As Mark Teixeira settles into his New York pinstripes, I find this signing to be an interesting maneuver by the Yankees. And as much as you hate what the Yankees are doing, spending over $424 million dollars on free agents, the latest signing comes as a bit of a surprise, and probably more for the Red Sox than anyone else! Scott Boras’s game of chicken with Boston turned out to real. The media reported Boston offered more money, but when Boras told them he had a better offer, they backed off, and acted like they did not believe the World best agent. Through this whole ordeal, the Yankees were in the background lurking, waiting to make their strike. And it one swift swirl, they got the prize, not only helping their team, but hurting their main nemesis in the process. Congrats to the Yankees for the way they played this one!

The other deal that happened in New York leaves a really bad taste in fantasy players’ mouths; the trading of JJ Putz to the Mets. From a fantasy player standpoint, this deal really sucks. It takes one of the top closers off the list of closers, as Putz will be a setup man in New York. The same could happen with Brian Fuentes, so the ‘09 draft will be filled with a lot of guesswork on whom the closers will be. Do your homework, and you can use this to your advantage. And while you’re at it, don’t forget about Putz. Our fantasy injury guru Rick Wilton has been predicting KRod is going down with an arm injury for the last three years. Having signed the big contract, Frankie might try a little too hard to impress the New York fans, and Mr. Wilton’s prophecy might come true. A late round or reserve pick of Putz could reap big rewards.

As the $180 million dollar man takes hold of first base in New York, another door opens in southern California. Here’s your Christmas present fantasy baseball readers, take a chance on Kendry Morales, who you should be able to get in the late rounds of your draft. The Cuban prospect is primed for a breakout year. He’s tearing the cover off the ball in the Caribbean league right now, and with 500-plus at-bats for the Angels next year, he’ll produce 25-30 home runs, over 100 RBI’s and hit close to .300. Great numbers for a late round pick who can start by filling an outfield spot, and fill your corner infield or first base position by May.

Have a safe and happy holiday season. The Fanball Fantasy Baseball Annual is being shipped to newsstands next week, but if you’d like one in your mail box the first week of January, just go to the Estore at Fanball.com and order today. I’ll even make you an offer you can’t refuse. Order by December 31st, and you’ll get Free shipping.

Order the magazine now: http://www.fanball.com/store/