Rumor Central: Yankees Close To Acquiring Lance Berkman

The New York Yankees are very close to acquiring Lance Berkman, sources say, and a deal could occur as soon as this afternoon.

Berkman, who is having an off year, has a full no-trade clause that would allow him to effectively choose whether to leave or stay with the Astros. Sources do say, however, that Berkman would approve a trade to the Yankees in part because of his close relationship with pitcher Andy Pettitte.

"All I know is there some discussion," Berkman said recently. "We're not at the finish line ... Ed (Wade) approached me with list of eight teams two days ago. I think there were four yays and four nays."

New York's interest in Berkman is a mild surprise as their offense has been rock solid this year. The switch-hitting Berkman, is batting .245 with 13 home runs and 49 RBIs and would add another threatening bat to the Yankees lineup.

**You can reach the author of this post at gazzy@gacksports.com

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