I really don't see what the heat has to do with his back problems. Its usually colder climates that make the muscles stiff and cause problems. I can see the heat dehydrating you and causing cramps but how often do you see that happen with MLB players? Cashman personally went to Lee's Arkansas home yesterday to give his pitch. I assume HOFer Nolan Ryan will be doing the same very soon.A source tells Craig Calcaterra of NBCSports.com that Cliff Lee was "not terribly happy in Texas" and is concerned about how his body would hold up pitching in the Texas heat.
Lee is a great pitcher no matter the venue, but he is 32 years old and dealt with a back problem during the second half of the season. July and August in New York aren't exactly a treat, either, but if this is a legitimate concern, it could give the Yankees an advantage should he receive similar offers.