Will Damon Really Return In 2010?

We've all heard over the past couple days that A; Scott Boras will want at least 4 years for Damon, B; the Giants are interested, and C; Damon possibly might take the deal with more years. So you really have to ask yourself - will Johnny Damon return to the Yanks in 2010?

The reason why I'm a little worried is because if you remember, during the 2005 season while with the Red Sox, Damon said he would never play for the Yankees and that he loves Boston. But sure enough, Damon signed a 4 year $50 million deal in December with the Bombers.

And like '05, Damon said all year that he wants to stay in New York and loves playing in New York. Is he just pulling our leg like he did to Red Sox fans, or is he serious about wanting to stay?

To me, I think he's serious. Remember, when he said he wouldn't play for the Yankees ever, the Yankees were just coming off a year when they beat the Red Sox on the final day of the season to win the AL East. Then, when free-agency began, the only real competitors were the Yanks and Red Sox - both contenders.

This year, however, the only really competitors are the Yankees, and the San Francisco Giant. The Giants, although they had a fairly good year for their standards, didn't win a World Series, like the Yankees did. I think Johnny's smart enough to realize which team he should choose.

Next, agent Scott Boras is just trying to make the Yankees offer more money/years to Damon. I don't think he expects any team to offer a 36-year old outfielder who can barely play left field next season 4 years over $15 million. Not happening. Not a chance.

Also, if I may add, Damon's family loves New York. He's a big family man, as is Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte, and other guys on the team. If I'm Damon, I'm not breaking my kids hearts and forcing them to go to California or somewhere else.

OK, so that last one wasn't too important, but finally, if Damon is really serious about returning to the Yanks, he will. He'll accept a 1 or 2 year deal worth around $10 million, and I think the Yanks will give him that.

So to me, there's no doubt in my mind that Johnny Damon will be back with the Yankees next season. Thoughts?