HOUSTON – Yankees general manager Brian Cashman decided yesterday to stay with the only team he’s ever worked for, accepting a three-year contract worth more than $5 million.

Cashman’s current contract expires October 31, and the Yankees cannot announce the new deal until after the World Series, a high-ranking baseball official said.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because baseball commissioner Bud Selig prohibits teams from making major announcements during the Series. The deal with Cashman still has not been finalized, the official added.

With the decisions of Cashman and manager Joe Torre to stay with the Yankees, New York can start on its off-season moves next week.

“‘Both Brian and Joe did the best job they’ve ever done in their careers to save our season,” Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez said before Game 3 of the World Series. “We have a short memory, but for us to get in the postseason was a miracle. I mean, we were 10 games back in late July.”

It appears the Yankees’ first priority will be to re-sign outfielder Hideki Matsui, who is eligible for free agency. New York also has a deal that is all-but-finalized with former San Diego and Philadelphia manager Larry Bowa, who would become third-base coach.

Cashman and Yankees general partner Steve Swindal did not return telephone calls seeking comment, and team spokesman Rick Cerrone said the Yankees had nothing to announce.

Philadelphia, which is seeking a replacement for general manager Ed Wade, had been seen as one of the potential suitors for Cashman. Gerry Hunsicker, who resigned as the Houston Astros’ general manager last November, could become a candidate for the Phillies’ job.

Rodriguez hit .321 during the regular season with 48 homers and 130 RBI, but batted .133 (2-for-15) in the Yankees’ five-game loss to the Los Angeles Angels in the first round of the AL playoffs.

“I had a tremendous season and I played poorly against Anaheim, but at the same time, you win as a team, you lose as a team, and I didn’t do my part,” he said. “I don’t have any regrets. I prepared. I did all I could as a player.”

Rodriguez said that the White Sox have shown that they are the American League’s best team.

“That exhibition of pitching and defense we’ve been able to see, with timely hitting, just really reminds us of what wins championships, and the White Sox have done a beautiful job,” he said. “It reminds me of the old Yankees team.”