The Cliff Lee sweepstakes is heating up, with the Reds and possibly even Yankees joining the Twins at the forefront. A.J. Burnett's problems have forced GM Brian Cashman to reconsider waiting for free agency to take his shot at Lee (above). A team trading for the Mariners starter in the next couple of weeks would owe him only about $4.5 million, which puts him on the radar for even a mid-payroll team such as the Reds. … The Twins' Carl Pavano, who played with Lee on the Indians, is pushing hard for GM Bill Smith to pull the trigger on a trade. There has been so much talk about Lee in Minnesota that the Twins could suffer a letdown if they don't get him. … The Red Sox are working the phones hard to trade for a second baseman with Dustin Pedroia gone for as long as eight weeks. That injury could be a difference-maker as the Red Sox seem destined to battle the Rays for a playoff spot. … Kerry Wood converted saves on three straight days last week, giving him some trade value he had been lacking. The Indians may have to eat some salary, but he seems likely to be dealt. … According to figures obtained through the team's bankruptcy proceedings, the Rangers claimed revenues of $167 million in 2009, up 12 percent from $149 million in '08. The launch of the MLB Network was a blessing for all clubs last season.