Tampa, Fla. ? Gary Sheffield vented his frustration Friday, then left Legends Field upbeat about his future with the New York Yankees.

Sheffield was angry over television reports about a meeting earlier this week during which New York general manager Brian Cashman said the team likely would pick up his $13 million option for next season.

“The way it looked on TV, it made me look like I was 2 years old,” Sheffield said, “like I can’t go into a room, be told something and then tell you what I was told. If I come out of the room positive, are they playing games with me or something? You’re supposed to be positive if your general manager comes out and says there’s a possibility they’ll pick up your option. They don’t see no reason not to. I produced for two years. What else do you want me to do?”

Sheffield talked to reporters after the Yankees’ worked out. He also addressed the matter again after meeting with Cashman, who sought out the right fielder after learning of his comments.

“It was best to have a sit-down and talk to each other face-to-face,” Cashman said, “make sure we understand each other. I’m glad we did. We had a good conversation, and I walked out of that feeling good, like I did the last time. It was something that was important to have.

“Hopefully, this is all behind us, and we can go forward. There will be a time and a place for the option.”

Sheffield is entering the final season of a $39 million, three-year contract, a deal that includes a $13 million club option for 2007.

“I’ve never had an organization come to me and say, ‘Eventually, we’re going to take care of you,”‘ Sheffield said. “I’ve never had anyone say, ‘I’m going to take care of you.’ Why shouldn’t I be happy? That’s a first for me in 17 years.”

Yankees owner George Steinbrenner left the matter in “Cashman’s hands.”

Sheffield, during his initial media session, said he would move on if things didn’t work out.