As contract negotiations with shortstop Derek Jeter are at a standstill, the New York Yankees reportedly reached a two-year agreement with closer Mariano Rivera on Thursday.
According to Andrew Marchand of ESPNNewYork.com:
"On Thursday night the Yankees and Rivera's agent, Fern Cuza, were putting the finishing touches on a contract that will be for around $30 million." "
The Yankees wanted him back. The only question during the negotiation was whether the deal would be for one year with an option or for two years. Since Rivera had leverage, he was able to get two years guaranteed."
In 2007, New York and Rivera agreed on a three-year, $45-million deal that made the closer the highest paid reliever ever.
Details of the new deal are expected to be announced on Friday.