TAMPA, Fla. — Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner says he’s concerned about the latest drug allegations swirling around third baseman Alex Rodriguez, but that the matter is being looked at by Major League Baseball.

The Miami New Times reported late last month that the three-time AL MVP bought human growth hormone and other performance-enhancing substances in recent years from Biogenesis of America LLC, a now-closed clinic in Coral Cables, near Rodriguez’s offseason home.

Speaking on Friday at the Yankees’ minor league complex, Steinbrenner said the situation is “a concern, but it’s out of our hands.”

Rodriguez has denied the allegations. He admitted four years ago that he used PEDs from 2001-03.

The Yankees signed one-time Boston Red Sox third baseman Kevin Youkilis to fill in for Rodriguez, who is sidelined for at least the first half of the season after hip surgery Jan. 16.

“I’ve always liked Kevin,” Steinbrenner said. “He always seemed like a good leader, a hard worker and a very enthusiastic — loves the game — kind of guy. And that’s the kind of guy we want.”

Lincecum changes look, outlook

Sporting short hair and black specs he doesn’t need but chooses to complete his new look, Tim Lincecum hardly resembled the hard-throwing San Francisco pitcher the Bay Area has come to know for his shaggy ’do and strong arm.

“I wanted something different. Usually I’d take like six months between each haircut just because I was lazy,” Lincecum said. “And now it’s kind of nice to have something to upkeep and take care of yourself.”

“Very professorial,” said Giants general manager Brian Sabean.

“He looks 12 now instead of 15,” said fellow starter Ryan Vogelsong.

Lincecum, who will make $22 million this season, hopes a new look and enhanced training regime will help him rebound from his worst season in the majors, when he went 10-15 with a 5.18 ERA in 33 starts.

Signings

The Mets have signed reliever Brandon Lyon to a one-year deal. The right-hander spent last season with the Astros and Blue Jays. He went 4-2 with a 3.10 ERA in 61 innings, with a save and 63 strikeouts. ...

The St. Louis Cardinals and 2011 World Series MVP David Freese have reached agreement on a one-year contract that avoids salary arbitration. The third baseman hit .283 with 20 home runs and 79 RBIs last season and earned his first All-Star appearance. ...

Chone Figgins

The Arizona Diamondbacks and second baseman Aaron Hill have agreed to a deal.