Yesterday George King of the Post reported:

The Yankees, according to several industry insiders, spent yesterday preparing an offer - perhaps a five-year deal worth about $80 million - for Toronto righty A.J. Burnett. This would come after they offered Milwaukee lefty CC Sabathia a six-year contract worth between $140 million and $145 million.

The emphasis is mine. But, Kat O'Brien reports today:

The Blue Jays already have offered a four-year, $54-million deal to retain Burnett, according to the Toronto Star. The Yankees' offer is expected to top the Blue Jays' in average annual value. However, a source shot down a report that the Yankees would offer five years and $80 million. They will not make an opening bid of more than four years or anywhere near $80 million, the source said.

Gulp. These are some big numbers. How much am I comfortable paying Burnett? The truth is, I don't really want him. Of course, I'd rather he not end up with the Red Sox, either. This is a contract I just don't see ending well and not just at the end, but in the last 2-3 years of the deal.

Via Steve.