In a surprising move, Damaso Marte's $6 million option was declined. This was a guy the Yankees had wanted for years, so I don't quite understand it. I know Phil Coke was phenomenal in limited action, but as the old axiom goes: "Don't put too much stock into March or September." Rosters are watered down, teams aren't playing as hard, etc.
They'll probably offer him arbitration, thereby assuring themselves a first round draft pick if he signs elsewhere. But if he accepts arbitration, his salary might actually go up (look at Scott Linebrink).
UPDATE 11/7 1:30 p.m.:
Negotiations are underway with Marte for a new deal worth about $12 million over 3 years.