We're all well aware of the ticking clock as A-Rod's opt-out option becomes ever-nearer, but in case we have somehow been distracted (perhaps by the fact that the entire goddamn southern California region is up in flames on the one weekend I decide - on a whim - to fly in and visit) the glory that is The Boras Man has been working overtime to make sure that A-Rod remains in the forefront of our minds. I'm pretty sure The Boras Man is actually single-handedly responsible for all sports-related media relations in the world, so it should come as no surprise that there is yet another "new" "development" to "report" on the A-Rod issue today. The latest word from the Boras-Man camp is that Big (and, presumably, the two Littles) Stein are ready to talk shop with A-Rod ASAP, this week in fact. Boras said that the talks are not in the "economic" phase (AKA the part where they demand $23094809482930 [and receive it]), leading us to believe that this chat will be all about extension time and not yet cash. After the Torre issue last week Boras alluded to the fact that the "instability" surrounding the club may be a factor in A-Rod's decision, so perhaps the Steins would be wise to put something resembling "order" in place over the next few days - a preliminary agreement with Posada or Mo, perhaps, or at least a renewed contract for Kevin Long? - to prove to Boras and A-Rod that even after the dismal end to the season and the sad end of Torre's tenure, the Bronx can still be a good home for A-Rod. As I see it right now, I think that so long as the Steins offer a hefty extension (and I do think it's going to be the number of years that is the deciding factor, not the number of dollars) A-Rod and Boras would probably prefer to skip having to travel the free agent circuit and would take the bait. The ball is definitely in the Yanks court right now. A big offer this week could eliminate a huge chunk of the team's issues for the rest of the post-season and secure the best player of our generation for years. Stein has the money to lock him up and prevent his team from having to be beat by him in an opposing lineup for the next 10 years. Pony up the cash, Steiny. Don't let us down.