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Mad Dog Minute: Awful spending by Yankees Dec. 15: In Chris Russo's mind, the New York Yankees overpaid for CC Sabathia and have too much trust in A.J. Burnett.

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The Yankees have spent more on payroll than any other team for several years. They haven't gotten out of the first round of the playoffs since 2004, haven't been to the World Series since 2003, haven't won a championship since 2000.

They tried buying a championship with Jason Giambi, Jaret Wright, Carl Pavano, etc. Never mind that chemistry and toughness were a huge part of how they won four World Series under Joe Torre.

Cashman has attempted to steer the Yankees back toward becoming a scouting-and-development organization, but after missing the playoffs in 2008, he felt he had no choice but look for a quick-fix through free agency.

Meanwhile, in Tampa, the Rays are keeping an eye on the Yankees while taking care of their own business. Friedman did a brilliant job building a pennant winner last year with under-the-radar signings like Eric Hinske, Gabe Gross and Cliff Floyd.

As long as Friedman and Maddon are in charge, the Rays will be competitive. How do they feel watching the Yankees build a roster with the checkbook?

"It wasn't unexpected," Friedman wrote. "We knew going into this off season that they would basically be immune from the economic downturn. We can't get too caught up in what the Yankees and Red Sox do. We're confident that if we are able to accomplish our goals for this off season that we'll be in good position to defend our American League Championship."

The Red Sox and Rays both plan to get better by opening day. Tampa may make offers to Milton Bradley and Jason Giambi. The Red Sox likely will be in the Teixeira sweepstakes until the end and might trade a pitcher (Clay Buchholz) for one of the Texas catchers.

Regardless, there's a confidence around the Red Sox. They're not going to react to the Yankees. "We're optimistic about where we are as an organization and our foundation," Epstein said.

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