Talks between Jeter and the Yankees going well

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner says contract talks between the team and shortstop Derek Jeter are going well.

Steinbrenner, who was at the general manager's meetings on Tuesday, said the negotiations are in the initial stages.

Jeter, his agent Casey Close and Yankees officials including Steinbrenner got together last week in Tampa, Fla. There have been additional discussions over the past week.

Jeter is a free agent for the first time after completing a 10-year contract this season. The Yankees have also held talks with the agents for closer Mariano Rivera, who is also a free agent.

"We do this every year," Steinbrenner said. "It's nothing out of the ordinary. Circumstances are a bit out of the ordinary. We know what we're dealing with here. We're dealing with two great Yankees. Nevertheless, the process is the same. We'll just continue talking to them."

Also, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman continues the search for a pitching coach after Dave Eiland was fired following the season. Candidates include bullpen coach Mike Harkey, Oakland Athletics roving pitching instructor Gil Patterson and Yankees minor league coach Scott Aldred.

Cashman didn't rule out making a small deal this week, and hasn't heard yet from left-hander Andy Pettitte, who hasn't decided whether to play next season or retire.