"Time is running out for the Yankees to strike a deal with Japanese infielder Hiroyuki Nakajima.

Technically, Nakajima and the Yankees have until Friday at 5 p.m. to reach an agreement. But according to a person with knowledge of the situation, who requested anonymity because talks are ongoing, the deadline is much sooner. Not only would Nakajima have to agree to terms but he'd also have to pass a physical by Friday's deadline.

Meanwhile, the contract talks themselves seem to be slow. The Yankees seem to be holding firm on paying Nakajima like a backup infielder, which would be a major shift for Nakajima, a starting shortstop and team captain with the Seibu Lions.

"I don't see anything happening," the person with knowledge said."