The Yankees could trade for a pitcher who got through the waiver process without being claimed, but last season virtually all effective pitchers were claimed.

It also became apparent to Hart at the meetings last week that he was not going to be able to trade for a pitcher.

The weekend demonstrated why the Yankees want to trade for a pitcher to steady their inconsistent rotation.

They traded me for a good pitcher.

He said the Astros had traded for a starting pitcher and would announce the deal soon.

They have done it by overcoming several injuries, by not trading for a pitcher and by thriving amid an environment that has been unpredictable.

"I love pitching," said Randolph, who speculated that the Mets would trade for a pitcher if they were unable to sign a free agent.

Upon learning of the potential problem late last week, General Manager Omar Minaya did not panic and rush out to trade for a pitcher.

The Mets would like to trade him for a starting pitcher by the July 31 deadline.

The Yankees could use them to trade for a pitcher or an outfielder, but Cashman has found nothing to interest him.