On-field problems: Rotation, center field, first base. Off-field issues: The terror of Hankenstein. Say goodbye: The Yankees got a lot of production and better-than-expected play at first base from Jason Giambi. But he will be 38 in January, and it likely would take a multiyear contract to retain him. The Yankees would like to have Mike Mussina back, but he seems intent on retiring. The Yankees finally have seen the last of Carl Pavano. Abreu is sure to be offered arbitration, but he will want more than a one-year deal. Complicated problems: Jorge Posada is signed for three more seasons at $39.3 million and is coming off extensive shoulder surgery. He has vowed to be the full-time catcher next season. But even had Posada not had surgery, relying on a 37-year-catcher is a risk. At the very least, the Yankees have to use Posada cautiously next season. By late December, the Yankees will have to evaluate how well Posada is throwing and decide whether to add a catcher. Issues to consider: The Yankees have said Joba Chamberlain will open next season as a starter. He threw only 100 1/3 innings this season, which figures to limit how often the Yankees can use him in 2009. The Yankees need to start next season with at least six capable starters in the organization to guard against overuse of Chamberlain. Solutions: The Yankees need to add at least two starters via free agency or trade. The average fan wants them to open the vault for Sabathia. But having a healthy Chien-Ming Wang atop the rotation with Chamberlain as the No. 2 would allow the Yankees to invest their money more judiciously in a pitcher such as Dodgers free agent Derek Lowe. Look for the other starter to come via trade once that market develops. If the Padres make Jake Peavy available, the Yankees would have to at least check in on that. If Abreu is willing to accept a two-year deal, the Yankees should retain him to play right field. That would allow them to play Xavier Nady in left field and use Johnny Damon as a center fielder and DH. The Yankees badly need to get younger and more athletic. If Brett Gardner plays well enough in spring training to earn a job, he should be given a shot to start in center field. Trading for a center fielder makes little sense unless the Yankees think that Double-A star Austin Jackson isn't an everyday player down the road. Cashman agreed to a three-year contract extension and said he and the Steinbrenner brothers had learned how to work together. But Hank Steinbrenner is sure to cause a ruckus or two or three this winter by demanding certain moves. It's an annoyance at this point given his lack of credibility. --

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