Use of Statistics Helps Greinke to A.L. Cy Young  —  It might have been a watershed moment in baseball's statistical revolution.  When the voting for the American League Cy Young Award was announced on Tuesday, Zack Greinke of the Kansas City Royals did not just win.  He did it in a landslide.

And Now, the Encore: Yanks Charting Off-Season Course  —  General Manager Brian Cashman started assembling his scouts on Tuesday, beginning the annual brainstorming sessions that chart the Yankees' off-season.  —  In some ways, the task was easier last winter, because the Yankees' goals were more clearly defined.

Nats interested in free agent Lackey  —  Club looking for veteran pitcher to mentor young hurlers  —  WASHINGTON — The Nationals are one of several teams who have expressed interest in free agent right-hander John Lackey, according to a baseball source.  —  The team is reportedly …

Short of AL ROY, Romero back at work  —  Jays southpaw stumbled late after strong early showing  —  TORONTO — Heading into August, there was little argument over who was leading the race for the American League's Rookie of the Year honor.  Blue Jays left-hander Ricky Romero was on a roll …

Minor League Free Agents  —  The World Baseball Classic last spring pushed back Opening Day and, consequently, the World Series, which finally concluded with a Game Six on Nov. 4.  It also delayed the free agent filing dates for both major and minor league players.

Joba's role for 2010 undefined  —  While his plans aren't settled, righty is hoping Pettitte returns  —  NEW YORK — Joba Chamberlain may not be able to influence his own place in the Yankees' future plans, but he would certainly like to influence the plans of another.

McLaren hired as bench coach  —  The Nationals have hired John McLaren as bench coach, the first staff change since Jim Riggleman took over as permanent manager, a club source has confirmed.  —  McLaren, 58, was manager of the Mariners from 2007-08, posting a combined 68-88 record …

Oh, My!  Padres and Enberg in courting stage  —  SAN DIEGO - Dick Enberg, ever understated, calls it “a flirtation.”  —  Here in the land of hyperbolic metaphor, however, it looks more like a hanging curve ball about belt-high: a home run waiting to happen.

Wally Backman introduced as Brooklyn Cyclones manager  —  NEW YORK — Wally Backman wants another chance to manage in the majors.  —  The former Mets second baseman, fired after four days with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2004, was introduced Tuesday as manager of the Brooklyn Cyclones …

Cleveland Indians name Sandy Alomar Jr. first base coach … CLEVELAND, Ohio — Sandy Alomar Jr. is coming home.  —  Alomar, 43, was named manager Manny Acta's first base coach today.  The former All-Star will also instruct Indians catchers.  With Class AA Eastern League MVP Carlos Santana knocking …