Wrapping it up from the Bronx  —  A few assorted things:  —  • Jorge Posada played with a No. 15 decal on his mask in honor of Thurman Munson, whose funeral was 30 years ago today.  “Just something I wanted to do,” he said.  “He means a lot to me.”  —  Posada is reading Marty Appel's new book on Munson.

Twins Acquire Carl Pavano  —  The Twins deepened their rotation today, acquiring Carl Pavano from the Indians for a player to be named later, according to a team press release.  Pavano, 33, has allowed 150 hits in 125.2 innings, posting a respectable 88K/23BB ratio.

Giambi released  —  Jason Giambi has been released by the A's, ending his failed return to the team with which he started out a star-crossed career.  Here is the team's press release:  —  OAKLAND, Calif. — The Oakland Athletics have released Jason Giambi, the five-time American League …

Yanks add depth by acquiring Gaudin  —  Possible fifth starter excited about coming to New York  —  NEW YORK — Poll the Yankees, and they'll tell you the most significant difference between now and June, between winning and losing, has been their bullpen.

Mets willing to waive bye to Billy?  —  SAN DIEGO - Billy Wagner could be on a contender in September.  —  As the former closer nears a return to the majors following Tommy John elbow surgery, a Mets insider suggested the organization would be open to dealing Wagner by the Aug. 31 postseason-roster deadline …

It's time to say goodbye  —  The hammer fell today and it hurts like hell.  —  They're putting the ol' baseball scribe out to pasture and if there are teardrops on your screen, well, that's from me, just an old softie.  —  My run is over - 37 years of bliss, doing a job that wasn't a job.

For Bannister, the secret is in the numbers  —  Right-hander finds success with Pitch f/x, sabermetrics  —  KANSAS CITY — Brian Bannister reaches into his locker and pulls out a baseball.  —  This is complicated stuff he's talking about, and he needs a prop.

Sources: Jays face choices on Rios  —  A waiver claim has been placed on Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Alex Rios, according to MLB sources.  —  At a time when most teams have very little financial flexibility, it could be within the realm of possibility that the Blue Jays will consider a trade of Rios …

Angels' offense hitting a high note  —  AL West leaders, usually rich in pitching, currently top the majors in runs scored  —  There is a general concern among major league managers that their teams aren't always ready to play in the days, even weeks, that follow the All-Star break.

Gladiator spirit to be kept in clubhouse  —  Relievers had been using helmets as a symbol of unity  —  KANSAS CITY — A symbol of unity among Mariners relievers must from now on stay inside the clubhouses at home and on the road.  —  Prior to Tuesday night's series opener against the Royals …