Yankees call Astros about Berkman

• The Yankees apparently called the Astros to ask about the availability of Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt. Houston stated that neither was being traded. Could this mean that New York is keen on signing Manny Ramirez, so instead of spending money on a free agent first baseman (Mark Teixeira), they are trying to get one via trade? The same goes with trading for Oswalt instead of inking CC Sabathia.
• The Mets are interested in Raul Ibanez. They eyed him around the trade deadline, as well. New York is also looking at Javier Vazquez, whom White Sox GM Kenny Williams said will almost definitely be dealt.
  
• According to San Diego GM Kevin Towers, Jake Peavy has now approved potential trades to two AL teams. One would assume that one of the two is the Yankees; maybe the other is the Angels?
• Greg Maddux is likely to retire.