Sources are saying that the Los Angeles Angels, Minnesota Twins and most recently, the Oakland Athletics have emerged as the finalists in the Alfonso Soriano sweepstakes.

While neither team is optimistic that Barry Zito will be dealt, both the Yankees and Mets sent scouts to watch his start on Saturday.

Omar Minaya and Billy Beane haven't had a conversation on the phone for about two months, but have been in infrequent contact via email, but both GM's are watching the other very closely.

The Mets have not given up in their pursuit of Barry Zito, and with top scout Russ Bove expected to be in Oakland this weekend to watch the former Cy Young Award winner face the Blue Jays, it's possible that a deal could be struck by Monday's non-waiver trade deadline.

The Mets have insisted for months that they won't trade their top position prospect, Lastings Milledge, but more and more major-league executives believe that the Mets will indeed part with Milledge, 21, if they can get the right starting pitcher in return.

The Yankees have talked with Oakland about acquiring outfielder Jay Payton, The Post has learned.

Athletics DH Frank Thomas has sued two White Sox doctors, claiming their misdiagnosis of his broken foot in 2004 led to further injury and his eventual departure from the team.

Oakland Athletics left-hander Scott Sauerbeck was ordered to speak to children about alcohol for fleeing police along with a woman charged with driving his car while drunk.

Barry Zito has switched agents in advance of free agency, moving from Arn Tellem to Scott Boras.

Designated hitter Frank Thomas and second baseman Mark Ellis were activated from the disabled list by the Athletics on Friday, and both were in the starting lineup against the Diamondbacks.