A.L. report.(Baseball)

Pitchers recovering from injuries could boost the YANKEES' and TIGERS' bullpens. Yankees RHP Steve Karsay, who missed the 2003 season because of shoulder surgery, had good control of his breaking ball after being activated in September, and his fastball showed life. Tigers coaches are optimistic Fernando Rodney could return from elbow surgery to handle some setup work next season. The key will be how his fastball comes back because it sets up his nasty changeup. ... If the ORIOLES expect to compete next season, they might have to deal some of their young pitchers for more reliable replacements. Teams are inquiring about LHPs Matt Riley and Erik Bedard, who can't be regarded as dependable starters at this point. ... ATHLETICS SS Omar Quintanilla's impressive play in the Arizona Fall League might have earned him a spring training invitation. With Bobby Crosby set at shortstop, Quintanilla will be asked to work out at second base. ... With a surplus of infield talent, the INDIANS could try to move 2B Brandon Phillips in a package to land a proven starting pitcher, such as A's LHP Barry Zito. The TWINS similarly might draw from their loaded outfield to acquire pitching help. With Lew Ford ready to step in and top prospect Jason Kubel on the horizon for 2006, the team might try to deal Jacque Jones to strengthen the staff. ... The RANGERS locked up a starting pitcher by re-signing RHP Chris Young to a three-year deal. Young has the potential to become an integral part of the rotation if he refines his off-speed pitches to complement a plus-fastball. ... The WHITE SOX could be in the market for a backup third baseman. Juan Uribe, who played that role last season, should take over as the regular shortstop. Wilson Valdez likely will become the team's top utiltyman. ... The MARINERS are pursuing RHP Carl Pavano for the top of their rotation. Pitcher-friendly Safeco Field could help persuade him to switch leagues. ... With Gregg Zaun a free agent and Grog Myers possibly retiring, the BLUE JAYS are struggling to line up a catching duo for '05. The Blue Jays aren't thrilled about Kevin Cash or Guiliermo Quiroz opening the season with the team. ... The RED SOX might consider trading one of their first basemen. Kevin Millar and Doug Mientkiewicz are under contract for next season, and both consider themselves everyday players. Millar has a solid bat; Mientkiewicz has an elite glove. ... The ANGELS and DEVIL RAYS have internal options to fill ...