Around the Empire: New York Yankees News - 1/25/15

New York Post | Ken Davidoff: Alex Rodriguez had a private meeting with new MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, who spearheaded the Biogenesis investigation that led to A-Rod's suspension. MLB has been pleased with A-Rod's relative silence throughout his suspension, and the recent meeting was organized to continue this goodwill.

Hardball Talk | D.J. Short: The Yankees attended a recent workout for 29-year-old Cuban second baseman Hector Olivera. Four other teams have strong interest in him as well.

MLB.com | Jonathan Mayo: Following his MVP performance in the Arizona Fall League, Greg Bird was named the third-best first base prospect in baseball. GREG BIRD.

Cespedes Family BBQ | Jake Mintz & Jordan Shusterman: MLB Draft analyst Chris Crawford appeared on the site's podcast to talk about his favorite prospects due to be selected in the 2015 Draft, and also to promote his incredibly cheap draftbook. The Barbecast is always worth a listen anyway thanks to the e-mails, Baseball-Reference name battles, and more. Subscribe. (Also subscribe to ours!)

LoHud | Chad Jennings: The Yankees announced game times for the 2015 season, though all are, of course, subject to change.