Joel Sherman of the The New York Post says that the chances of the New York Yankees re-signing Johnny Damon remain remote.

Damon has been searching for a new employer all off season, but his salary demands have priced himself out of most situations.  His agent, Scott Boras, has reportedly asked for at least two-years for $20 million.  Sherman says the Yankees are telling agents that they only have $2 million to spend on a left fielder.  However, if the Yankees really wanted to get Damon they could always create extra money in the budget such as last year’s situation when they signed Andy Pettitte and his $5.5 million base salary plus incentives to the payroll.

The Yankees were motivated last year after failing to qualify for the post season.  After winning the 2009 World Series, the club is not as compelled to break the bank and splurge on a player like Damon.

Unless the Yankees have a change in their budget they will go after supplementary players for left field rather than Damon.  Sherman suggests players like Xavier Nady, Reed Johnson, Rocco Baldelli, Jerry Hairston Jr. and Marcus Thames would be candidates to take Damon’s place on the team.

The Atlanta Braves have been linked to Damon, but have not made an offer.

You can see Damon’s contract history and statistics here.