The Yankees won 97 games in the regular season and led the majors in scoring. From a lineup standpoint, there are no holes to fill. But their pitching staff has several needs that will have to be addressed before the start of spring training.

BIGGEST NEEDS: With 43-year-old Randy Johnson needing back surgery and 37-year-old Mike Mussina a free agent, the Yankees need to address their starting pitching. The addition of Japanese starter Daisuke Matsuzaka figures to be a priority.

FREE AGENTS: OF Gary Sheffield, RHP Mike Mussina, RHP Jaret Wright, C Sal Fasano, INF Miguel Cairo, RHP Octavio Dotel, RHP Tanyon Sturtze, LHP Ron Villone, INF Nick Green, OF Bernie Williams, 1B Craig Wilson.

The Yankees hold options on Sheffield, Mussina and Wright. The pitchers are likely to be retained, but Sheffield is likely bound for another team. The Yankees have varying degrees of interest in the other players, with Villone the most likely to return.

ARBITRATION-ELIGIBLE: None

IN LIMBO: OF Bernie Williams, a free agent, is in the same position he was at this time last year. The Yankees likely would welcome his return, but only in a part-time role. Williams hit .281 with 12 homers and 61 RBIs and could start for many teams.

PROSPECT WATCH: A newly fertile farm system has produced a gem in 20-year-old RHP Philip Hughes, perhaps the best pitching prospect in the minors. He is expected to start the 2006 season in Triple-A but could find himself in the majors by the middle of the season. INF Eric Duncan did not progress as hoped but remains a power hitter with potential. RHP Jeff Karstens impressed during his September call-up.

MEDICAL WATCH:

LHP Randy Johnson (herniated disc, lower back) is expected to have surgery on Oct. 26. He should be ready early in spring training.

DH Jason Giambi (left wrist) underwent surgery on a small ligament tear.

1B Andy Phillips (right knee) had a minor cartilage problem that was surgically repaired.

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