So now that I've sufficiently grieved for the end of the 2007 Yankee season, I can start thinking about next year. And there a lot of issues to sort out before pitchers and catchers report in four short months.

First of all, who's going to manage this team? I'm actually in the minority about Joe Torre; which is to say I think they should keep him around. The guy gets them to the playoffs every year, he handles a room full of multi millionaires - who all love him - and he's a beloved figure in New York. It's not his fault the Yankees have had the worst pitching of all the AL playoff teams the last few years. More on that later.

I would say the one criticism I have of Joe is the way he burns out his bullpen. He's done it to Nelson, Stanton, Sturtze, Villone, Proctor and more. And of course the big fear is that if Torre returns - and Chamberlain stays in the pen - he would do it to Joba as well. But it seems Chamberlain is headed to the starting rotation and Torre is headed out the door, so I guess it doesn't really matter.

As far as his replacement, I think the Yanks should stay in house and hire Joe Girardi. He's managed before, and won. He knows the Yankees and the fans love him. I don't want to see Tony LaRussa wearing those sunglasses in the Yankees dugout next year. Let's keep it in the family, please.

On to A-Rod. Here's what I say: "See ya." So let me get this straight. The guy once again is lousy in the playoffs (he got a few hits, but none of them were big). He left a boatload of guys on base and killed a few rallies against Cleveland. At times he looked really nervous at the plate. And now he's going to opt out and ask for a raise? Why? So he can have a great regular season, beat up on KC's and Texas' pitchers, and then choke in the playoffs again? Let's face it, the guy is NEVER going to be good for the Yankees in the postseason. So, cut your losses, find a cheaper replacement and spend your money on pitching!

That's right: pitching. Nothing has killed the Yankees more in the playoffs the last few years than their pitching staff. When the postseason rolls around, every other team has starters that can neutralize the Yankee bats. But the Yanks don't have anyone who can do the same. There is no Beckett or Sabathia or Carmona. Hasn't been for years.

Dontrelle Willis wants out of Florida. Go get him. Then add one more guy, turn Chamberlain into a starter, give Phil Hughes a full season and let's see what happens. And please ... NO MORE MIKE MUSSINA. I mean seriously, what's the point?

Lastly, I'd think about some youth in the outfield; particularly left field. Let's admit, Matsui and Damon aren't getting any younger; or faster; or healthier; or better. Watching them try and chase down fly balls this season was very painful. And, of course, watching Damon throw the ball is even worse.

So there are a couple of suggestions for next year's Yankees. And since Brian Cashman may get fired too, perhaps I'll call Steinbrenner and throw my hat in the ring for GM. I mean, I can go seven years without winning a World Series. How hard is that?