"The Yankees have won the right to negotiate with Japanese shortstop Hiroyuki Nakajima, according to a person with knowledge of the situation, who requested anonymity because talks are ongoing. The team has 30 days to work out a deal with Nakajima, a 29-year-old shortstop who last season hit .297 for the Seibu Lions.

The Yankees view Nakajima as affordable "good middle of the diamond talent," the person with knowledge. Just as attractive might be the shortstop's price tag. The Yankees won negotiating rights for a modest bid of about $2 million, according to the person with knowledge."