"How he's doing, that's our concern now," said Torre, who planned to call Strawberry this weekend. "There's not much I can offer him at this point in time other than support."

	George Steinbrenner offers his support to Darryl Strawberry on Wednesday at Legends Field.

Strawberry failed a drug test Jan. 19, violating terms of his probation from a no-contest plea to charges of cocaine possession and soliciting a prostitute in Tampa last spring. A judge approved the Florida Department of Corrections' recommendation for enhanced supervision and treatment.

Strawberry, an eight-time All-Star who turns 38 next month, has twice been suspended because of cocaine, and baseball officials have said a ban of about one year is probably. The penalty might include a provision for a shorter ban if Strawberry stays clean, an incentive for the outfielder to follow his aftercare program.

"This is like a jury being out," Torre said. "You don't know what's a positive sign. I'd have to say, I would lean toward thinking it's a good sign -- if it's the long deliberation -- you're taking into consideration all the human areas of this thing."

Torre said he has not been contacted by the commissioner's office as part of its review.

"I think they probably get the information from what I've said to you guys," Torre told reporters. "He is unlike other players that I've had as far as just his behavior in the clubhouse. He has never been a truant in any way."

Torre remains supportive, but also understands those who say Strawberry has used up his chances.

"I can also understand why part of the public feels enough is enough," Torre said. "Again, the whole thing is knowing him, and knowing how tough this has been for him. I believe he's trying."

The Yankees have been holding meeting reviewing options for designated hitter if Strawberry is unavailable. Torre said the gap could partially be filled by using players such as outfielders Bernie Williams and Paul O'Neill, along with first baseman Tino Martinez on what previously would have been days off.

Jim Leyritz, the expected right-handed counterpart to left-handed hitting Strawberry, will receive consideration. The outcome of the battle for the left-field spot between Ricky Ledee and Shane Spencer could also impact the situation.

The Yankees have not ruled out making a trade during spring training.