The New York Yankees should be getting used to turndowns by now.
Terry Steinbach joined the list of free agents who said no to George Steinbrenner's millions, agreeing Monday to stay with the Oakland Athletics for $14 million over four years.Oakland had been offering a $12.5 package million to the catcher until the weekend, when the Yankees proposed a $17 million deal. Instead of taking it, Steinbach joined those who said no, a group that includes outfielder Barry Bonds and pitchers Greg Maddux, Doug Drabek, David Cone and Jose Guzman.
"Money has never been my major focus," Steinbach said. "I would like my fair share, but I've never been one to jump on just the dollar amount. It's more the concept of what the A's have meant. They've stuck with me for 10 years and I felt a sense of loyalty. They came in with a very sensible offer."
In other deals Monday, catcher Bob Melvin agreed to a $1.35 million, two-year contract with the Boston Red Sox and infielder Tom Foley agreed to a $360,000, one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Also, pitcher Mike Bielecki agreed to a minor league contract with the Cleveland Indians and pitcher Jamie Moyer agreed to a minor league contract with the Baltimore Orioles.
Meanwhile, Wade Boggs' agent continued talks with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees. New York is said to be offering three years and Los Angeles two with an option.
Steinbach, 30, said telephone calls from manager Tony La Russa and general manager Sandy Alderson were keys in his decision. He said they emphasized the team's commitment to winning.
"The A's have been there before, and I think with the changes that have happened, they'll be there again. I hope I'm just the beginning," Steinbach said.
Steinbach is the first of the Athletics' key free agents to re-sign. Dave Stewart left for Toronto and Mike Moore left for Detroit, while Mark McGwire, Ruben Sierra and Ron Darling remain unsigned.
Under Steinbach's deal, he gets a $2.8 million signing bonus, $2.1 million each in 1993 and 1994 and $3.5 million each in the final two seasons. He made $2.05 million in 1992.
Melvin, 31, played in 32 games for Kansas City last season and hit .314 in 70 at-bats. Melvin, who made $900,000 in 1992, is expected to be Tony Pena's backup.
Melvin, who also has played for Detroit, San Francisco and Baltimore, has a .235 career average with 31 homers and 185 RBIs in eight major-league seasons. He will get $650,000 in 1993 and $700,000 in 1994.
Foley, 33, spent his last six seasons with Montreal, but hasn't batted over .229 since 1988.