Reports: Jeter, Yanks near contract deal

The New York Daily News and The New York Times said a deal was being finalized and would keep Jeter in Yankee pinstripes for another three seasons and include an option for a fourth year.

The contract would end the closely watched talks between Jeter and the Yankees over the future of a Bronx fixture who, at 36 is also assumed to be past his prime.

Jeter, who averaged nearly $19 million per season under his previous 10-year contract, hit a career-low but still respectable .270 last season.

The Times said a breakthrough in the talks occurred Friday and continued into the night. The deal would reportedly pay Jeter $15 to $17 million for three years with an option that the source said was "not vesting and is highly unusual."

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