MLB

SOURCE: BOSSES WANT BRIAN BACK

ST. PETERSBURG – Hal and Hank Steinbrenner agree they want Brian Cashman back as the Yankees’ GM, The Post has learned.

According to a MLB source, the Steinbrenner family has decided Cashman is the man to lead the organization back from a nightmarish season that will end with the Yankees missing playoffs for the first time since 1993.

Cashman, who last week shouldered the blame for the dismal season, met with Hal and Hank yesterday at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. No contract offer was made but, according to the source, Cashman is aware of the Steinbrenners’ wishes.

Talking before last night’s 7-2 win over the division-leading Rays, Cashman refused comment on the Steinbrenners wanting him back. All year Cashman has said he will deal with his future in the offseason. Right now, he said the focus is on pulling off a miracle this season.

“We have gone through the frustration and disappointment,” Cashman said. “Now the focus is on the small things. Try and pick up a game a week and get to Fenway Park and make that series meaningful.”

Cashman, 41,is in the final season of a three-year deal worth $5.4 million, and he understands the mountain his club has to climb.

“Is it too much, a game a week?” Cashman said. “It’s not out of the realm of possibility. You can’t do it in three or four days. Make up a game a week and get to Fenway Park with a chance. If (Boston) wants to make it easier, I’ll take that.”

Cashman has been linked to the Seattle and Philadelphia GM jobs. If Washington dumps Jim Bowden, expect Cashman to be mentioned in the city he attended college (Catholic University).

george.king@nypost.com