Major League Baseball

Report: Yanks not interested in Damon

Published Feb. 18, 2012 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The New York Yankees have closed the door on the possibility of free-agent designated hitter Johnny Damon returning to the team, the New York Post reported Saturday.

Damon, 38, played four seasons with the Yankees and won the World Series with the franchise in 2009.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said Damon called the club about a return and, "I told him the truth."

"He is not the No. 1 option if and when I turn to DH options," Cashman said.

Damon also confirmed both he and the Yankees were "looking at other options now," describing the situation as "unfortunate."

The move means 39-year-old Raul Ibanez -- who spent the past three seasons with the Phillies -- is now the favorite for the left-handed designated hitter spot.

The Yankees are also looking to sign utility infielder Eric Chavez once the deal to send pitcher A.J. Burnett to the Pirates is approved by Major League Baseball.

The Burnett deal will bring the Yankees' $13 million from the Pirates.