NEW YORK–George Steinbrenner, owner of the New York Yankees, has successfully outbid others for the rights to talk to the doorman of his Manhattan apartment complex. The deal comes on the heels of a successful Yankees bid to negotiate with the Japanese pitcher Kei Igawa of Japan’s Hanshin Tigers.

Doorman Ronaldo Theraux, a 46-year-old immigrant from Haiti, accepted Steinbrenner’s offer of $100,000 for the exclusive rights to talk, negotiate, converse, chit-chat, and flap gums with him.

“After we lost our bid for [Daisuke] Matsuzaka to the Red Sox, I knew I had to make some moves,” said Steinbrenner at a press conference. “Igawa was just the first step. With Ronnie also on hand, I feel much better about our chances.”

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When asked for comment, Theraux looked over to Steinbrenner, who wagged his finger. The doorman then just shrugged his shoulders.

Steinbrenner is expected to offer Theraux a six-year deal upwards of $500,000 for exclusive speaking rights. Sources close to the deal say that the Red Sox had initially offered a three-year $100,000 to Theraux, who refused. The Chicago Cubs and the Dallas Mavericks were also reportedly interested.

“This is just the beginning,” said Steinbrenner. “I’ve also got my eye on a hot prospect at the deli around the corner, a waitress at a restaurant I frequent, and my children.”