Boston in the hunt for Alex Rodriguez as Yankees stalk

Rodriguez proposed a US$40 million, four-year contract Friday during telephone negotiations with Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria.

"We are not optimistic at this point that we are going to be able to reach resolution on a contract before Sunday night at midnight," general manager Larry Beinfest said. "The financial goals of Pudge and the Marlins are significantly apart at this time."

Ivan Rodriguez made US$10 million last season.