TAMPA — There won’t be a Johnny Damon II in The Bronx.
According to Damon, he no longer is considering a return to the Yankees as a free agent.
“We both are looking at other options now,’’ Damon told The Post yesterday, and called it “unfortunate.’’
According to Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, Damon contacted the club.
“He called and I told him the truth,” Cashman said. “He’s not the No. 1 option if and when I turn to DH options.’’
The Yankees closing the door on Damon means Raul Ibanez is the prohibitive favorite for the left-handed DH spot they spoke to Damon about.
A.J. Burnett takes his physical with the Pirates today. If he passes and Major League Baseball approves the deal, it is expected to be announced Tuesday.
With the Burnett deal freeing up $13 million, the Yankees brass will meet today to see if there is a chance to sign Ibanez and utility corner infielder Eric Chavez.
The team’s budget did not include both left-handed hitters, but the Yankees often find creative financial ways for players they want.
A career .280 hitter, the 39-year-old Ibanez batted .245 last season with 20 homers and 84 RBIs in 144 games for the Phillies. He has driven in 83 runs or more in the past seven seasons.
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Pitchers and catchers report to George M. Steinbrenner Field today, and the first workout of spring training is set for tomorrow.
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The Yankees liked Diego Moreno, acquired from the Pirates in the Burnett deal, last December and wanted to take the right-handed reliever with a 97-mph fastball late in the Rule 5 draft.
Nevertheless, the Yankees made two picks before the third round and didn’t want to use a third 40-man roster spot.
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The Yankees added to the competition for the second left-hander in the bullpen behind Boone Logan by signing Clay Rapada to a minor league contract. Rapada, who has played for four teams, has held lefties to a .153 average (18-for-118)in his major league career.