And the Winner is...

November 3rd is the date we'll know who won the Matsuzaka sweepstakes (assuming they post him on the first available date - Nov. 1). Teams have 72 hours after that to submit their bids, and the winner has 30 days to work out a contract. I've read that exactly 12 teams 'have interest' in Matsuzaka. That's a lot...

Japan is 13 hours ahead - actually by November, it will be 14 with Daylight Savings. Assuming the Seibu Lions post him at 12:01 am Nov. 1 (NY time), we'll know by 12:01 am Nov. 4. If he's posted at 12:01 am Nov. 1 Japanese time (10:01 am Oct. 31 NY time), we'll know the winner Nov. 3 at 10:01 am NY time. Hopefully this isn't too confusing.

In other news, Sheffield is upset because apparently the Yanks are going to pick up his $13 million option for 2007, then trade him. I can't say I blame him for being upset, but it's the right move for the Yanks. Not only will they get something in return - as opposed to just free agency draft pick compensation, but they can choose where he goes (to keep him off the Sawx or Mets).