Cervelli Cleared; Edwar Traded

Just days after suffering from his second concussion in just months, the Yankees cleared Francisco Cervelli for baseball activities. Hopefully Cervelli doesn't lie about being okay and suffer a similar fate to that of Ryan Church.

Also, the Yankees traded Edwar Ramirez to the Texas Rangers in exchange for cash considerations. Ramirez was very likely to be claimed off of waivers so the Yankees made a few extra dollars off of this move.

Cervelli Suffers Another Concussion

Yankees back-up catcher Francisco Cervelli suffered his second concussion in four months today after being hit by a pitch in the head by Zech Zenicola. After the HBP, Cervelli got a CT scan which proved the injury.

The Yankees think that Cervelli will be able to return by the middle of next week, but should problem occur, the Yankees always have Mike Rivera available to take over the role.

Yankees Sign Van Benschoten

The Yankees made another minor move the other day as they added SP John Van Benschoten on a minor league deal.

Van Benschoten, 29, a former first round pick by the Pirates, is arguably one of the worst players in Major League history. In 90 career innings he has a 9.20 ERA and a WHIP of 2.144.

Edwar DFAed

The Yankees announced that RP Edwar Ramirez was DFAed today in order to make room for Chan Ho Park on the 40-man roster.

Thames Can Opt Out

According to various sources, in the Yankees' deal with Marcus Thames, Thames can opt out of his contract following the end of Spring Training if he is not given a roster spot. Basically, him and Jamie Hoffman are in the same exact situation.

I don't see this opt out clause having a real influence on whether or not he gets a spot. Thames is not exactly anything special.

Don't Trust Chan Ho, Never Trust a Chan Ho, Can't Trust Chan Ho, Don't Trust Him

Although their names had been linked in the days prior to the Yankees' signing of Chan Ho Park, I was a little surprised to see that they actually completed a deal.

What can the Yankees expect out of Chan Ho Park as a reliever? Can he be used in a set-up role? Was this entire article just an excuse to use my slightly clever title?

We all know about his splits from last season; he was terrible as a starting pitcher but excellent in the bullpen with a 2.52 ERA and a K/9 of 9.4 for the National League Champions.

Frankly, considering his age and how volatile he has been over his career, I would really like the Yankees to put him into a tight game immediately and frequently over the beginning of the season. This would be as important as they would be able to see if Park would be able to come through in close games, as well as see if he is the same Chan Ho Park that they saw in the bullpen from last year. I do expect to see a regression from last year's stats due to the move to the AL East and an increase in his age, but I wouldn't be surprised if he turned out to be a serviceable reliever for the Yankees next year.

In case you didn't notice, Brian Cashman was a complete master this offseason. He basically upgraded from Brian Bruney to Chan Ho Park, while saving money on the upgrade, as well as acquiring Jamie Hoffman because of it.

Also, this signing does an a impact on the 40 man roster; as of this moment there are no more spots on it for Park, which most likely means that Edwar Ramirez will be designated for assignment

Spring Training Preview: The Non-Roster Invitees Part 1

Pitchers and catchers finally reported yesterday for the first day of Spring Training. Every once in a while, a non-roster invitee with surprise everyone and make the roster, or at least get their name known. Last year it was Ramiro Pena. So let's take a look at the non-roster invitees in a mini-series. Today I'll start with Wilkins Arias, Jeremy Bleich, Grant Duff, Jason Hirsh, Kei Igawa, and Zach McAllister.

Wilkins Arias:

The 29 year old reliever has only been in professional baseball since 2006. He spent all of last year with Double-A Trenton. He's very unlikely to get many innings in Spring Training, and likely to be one of the first people down.

Last year in Double-A he had a 3.65 ERA over 61.2 innings; in that time he struck out 66 and walked only 22, with a 1.22 WHIP. He will probably get a shot at Scranton, but his Spring Training innings are likely to be at a minimum.

Jeremy Bleich:

Bleich, a 22-year old first rounder from the 2008 draft had an up-and-down disappointing first full season. After putting together solid numbers in A+ Tampa (3.40 ERA, 79.1 IP, 6.4 K/9, 2.5 BB/9, 1.27 WHIP) he got bombed in Double-A Trenton (6.65 ERA, 1.82 WHIP).

Considering his inexperience, his chances of getting any innings is very unlikely. He should be one of the first to be re-assigned.

Grant Duff:

Duff, a 27 year old reliever, never really had great numbers in the minors, but his explosive fastball says that he may have some potential. He was left off the 40-man roster, allowing any team to select him in the Rule V Draft, but was unclaimed. I would not be surprised to see Duff get a good amount of innings for the team to see if he is near-Major League ready. He has a shot at a bullpen spot, but it's not likely.

Jason Hirsh:

The Yankees keep saying that the #5 spot is up for grabs, so maybe the 28-year old can sneak in as the underdog. Hirsh, who spent 2006-2008 in the Majors, has really fallen. With Houston's Triple-A affiliate he had a 6.66 eRA over 101.1 innings, and joined the Yankees in a mid-season trade. But with Triple-A Scranton he had a 1.35 ERA over 26.2 innings with 21 strikeouts and a 1.12 WHIP.

Hirsh, considering his intriguing 2009, will absolutely get a long look by the Yankees. If not for the #5 spot, he could try to take a long-relief role. Keep an eye out for him.

Kei Igawa:

Considering the number of starters in the upper-levels, his run as a starter may be over. However, this does not mean he is out of hope. He had very solid numbers against lefties last year in the minors, so I would not be surprised if they used him solely against lefties this Spring Training to see if he can be a LOOGY.

Zach McAllister:

Even more of an underdog than Hirsh for the #5 spot due to his youth and inexperience. He will likely only get a few innings and be one of the first down. But don't be surprised if he is one of the first guys called on if a starter is needed early on in the season.

Dustin Moseley signed; 4 others to Spring Training

The Yankees did what may well be their last move of the offseason as they signed one more pitcher - Dustin Moseley - to a minor league deal. Moseley, 28, was a 1st round pick by the Reds back in 2000. He has spent parts of the last four seasons with the Angels, putting together a career 5.41 ERA. He pitched in only three games last season - all in the Majors - before missing the rest of the season with forearm tightness and hip surgery. He was non-tendered after the season and will likely pitch out of the bullpen in Triple-A. He was invited to Spring Training.

The four other players invited to Spring Training were:

3B Brandon Laird

SP D.J. Mitchell

SP Ryan Pope

1B Jorge Vazquez

Yankees Invite 20 to Spring Training

The Yankees released their spring training roster today, which involved 20 non-roster invitees. Non-roster invitees are players that are not on the 40 man roster that are invited to spring training.

Here is the list:

C Kyle Higashioka

C Jesus Montero

C P.J. Pilittere

C Austin Romine

C Mike Rivera

OF Marcus Thames

OF Colin Curtis

OF Reid Gorecki

OF Jon Weber

OF David Winfree

SP Jeremy Bleich

SP Jason Hirsh

SP Kei Igawa

SP Zach McAllister

RP Wilkins Arias

RP Grant Duff

RP Royce Ring

RP Amaury Sanit

RP Zack Segovia

RP Kevin Whelan

Yankees Add Another Ex

The Yankees added even more outfield depth today by signing former Yankee Marcus Thames. Thames, who spent 2009 with the Detroit Tigers, was added on a minor league deal, paying him $900,000 if he makes the Major League roster.

Thames (pronounced "Tims" - as in "more than one Tim"), 33 next season, was drafted in the 30th round of the 1996 draft by the Yankees. He made a memorable Major League debut by hitting a homerun on the first pitch he ever saw - off of Randy Johnson. He would then be sent to Texas in the offseason in a trade for Ruben Sierra. After becoming a minor league free agent, he signed with the Tigers, where he would be from 2004 to 2009.

Last year, in 258 at-bats, Thames hit .252/.323 with a .777 OPS, along wiht 13 homeruns. Thames has a lot of power, but a low batting average, mediocre OBP, and a terrible glove.

With the signing of Thames, the chances of Jamie Hoffman making the team just got a little bit slimmer.

Back to the Past: 2 Moves I've Been to Lazy to Post About

Last week the Yankees made a seemingly minor move and a fairly significant move.

First, they traded for OF Greg Golson in exchange for Mitch Hilligoss., adding more outfield depth to the system. Then they sign OF Randy Winn to a 1-year/$2 million dollar deal, basically ending Johnny Damon's time in the Bronx.

Greg Golson (from BaseballAmerica, via WasWatching):

With the deadline to add players to the 40-man roster staring them in the face Thursday, the Phillies and Rangers arrived at an inspired decision as they contemplated the organizational futures of Greg Golson and John Mayberry Jr., their toolsy but slow-moving outfielders. They traded their prospects straight-up for one another.

Philadelphia sent Golson, its first-round pick (21st overall) in 2004, to Texas for Mayberry, the Rangers’ first-rounder (19th overall) in 2005. Both players are on their new clubs’ 40-man rosters, making them exempt from December’s Rule 5 draft.

Golson, 23, offers huge speed, arm strength and range in center field, but his hitting tools and pitch recognition remain unrefined. A product of Austin’s Connally High, he batted .282/.333/.434 for Double-A Reading in 2008, chipping in 13 home runs, 18 doubles and 23 stolen bases in 28 attempts. The righthanded batter struck out 130 times in 426 at-bats, a rate that was in line with career norms, while drawing 34 walks. Even with a low contact rate, Golson’s power plays as average, and Eastern League mangers named him the league’s most exciting player. He’s batted .265/.309/.406 in 2,101 minor league at-bats, and he went 0-fot-6 for the Phillies as a September callup.

Clearly, if Golson rebounds he could have some potential. However, it is entirely possible that he ends up in the same roll that Freddy Guzman was in.

Randy Winn is also coming off of an off-year. With the Giants he hit .262/.318/.353 with 2 homeruns, but the previous two years had a batting average of .300 or above. BABIP and line drive data suggest that he was very unlucky last year, so I think this move is a very good one. And if he can't hit the way that he used to be able to, he'll still be a very good fielder and baserunner.

Logan, Gaudin Agree to Deals

According to various sources, the Yankees avoided arbitration with pitchers Chad Gaudin and Boone Logan.

Logan agreed to a 1-year deal worth $590K.

Gaudin agreed to a 1-year deal worth $2.95 million.

Gaudin is expected to be the long reliever/5th starter, unless he is traded.

Yanks Add 3 More Minor Leaguers

According to various sources, the Yankees signed three more players to minor league deals. They signed Zack Segovia, David Winfree, and Royce Ring.

Segovia, 27 in April, spent 2009 split between the Nationals' AA and AAA affiliates. He put up a 3.68 ERA in 44 innings in AA and 2.54 ERA in 28.1 innings in AAA. He has a little Major League experience; he had one start in 2007 with Philadelphia and threw 8 games with the Washington Nationals in relief last year.

Winfree, a 24 year old infielder, hit .273/.317/.777 with 14 home runs, 31 doubles, and 3 triples with the Twins' AAA affiliate last year.

Ring, 29, is a lefty reliever with 94 games under his belt. He last pitched with Atlanta in 2008 where he had a 8.46 ERA in 22.1 innings. He spent last year with the Cardinals' AAA affiliate where he had a 3.04 ERA over 47.1 innings.

Reid Gorecki

According to BaseballAmerica, the Yankees signed OF Reid Gorecki to a minor league deal. Gorecki, 29, put together an .815 OPS in Triple-A last year in the Braves organization, followed by a 5-25 stint in the Majors.

Expect Gorecki to be the starting centerfield for Scranton, completing the outfield that will also feature Jon Weber and Colin Curtis.

Shelley Duncan Leaves; Mitre

Just two bits of news that's worth passing along:

• Shelley Duncan has signed a minor league deal with the Indians.
• Sergio Mitre agreed to a 1 year/$850,000 deal, avoiding arbitration with the Yankees.

Are They Getting Younger?

NoMaas recently tried to see if the Yankees were getting younger. Well, Steve over at WasWatching had a slight problem with their methodology – and rightfully so. As he said, “A few old apples can easily ruin the average of the whole barrel” which is absolutely valid.

Furthermore, it does not consider each player’s impact. Should a 42-year old bench player have the same value as a 22-year starting second-baseman? Clearly no, and this tries to fix it.

I’m not even sure if this is solving the problem, but I gave my own go at trying to evaluate whether the Yankees got older or younger. I just basically evaluated the Age/Plate-Appearance and Age/Batter-Faced between 2005 and 2009.

Basically what I did was this:

For batters: Multiply the player’s age by plate appearances; sum all of these up for the entire team; then divide by the total plate appearances for that team

For pitchers: Multiply the pitcher’s age by batters faced; sum all of these up for the entire team; then divide by the total batters faced for that team.

For all the exact data, take a look at the spreadsheet at Google Docs.

Basically, using this method the following data was determined.

The average Age/PA for the hitters in 2005 was: 32.69.

The average Age/PA for the hitters in 2009 was: 30.69.

The average Age/BF for the pitchers in 2005 was: 34.05.

The average Age/BF for the pitchers in 2009 was: 29.07.

So yes, under Brian Cashman, the Yankees have clearly been getting significantly younger – especially the pitchers.

Sickels Ranks the Yanks

Over at MinorLeagueBall, John Sickels ranked the top Yankee prospects:

1) Jesus Montero, C, Grade A: I know that his position is up in the air, but I love this bat so much that I'm going to give him a straight Grade A. This is a Mike Piazza/Manny Ramirez type bat.

2) Austin Romine, C, Grade B: Not in Montero's class as a hitter, but he's not bad, should improve further, and is much better defensively.

3) Manny Banuelos, LHP, Grade B-: Borderline Grade B. Intriguing young lefty, undersized but has a very good arm and has performed quite well thus far.

4) Zach McAllister, RHP, Grade B-: Strike-throwing-ground-ball-generating-inning-gobbler with advanced pitching feel. A fifth starter, long reliever, or trade bait in New York.

5) Slade Heathcott, OF, Grade B-: Excellent tools, will have to see how his skills develop, and if he overcomes concerns about his makeup from high school.

6) Mark Melancon, RHP, Grade B-: Borderline C+. Relief prospects are hard to grade, especially if they aren't going to get a chance to close, but I really like Melancon. Great stats in the minors, with very good stuff.

7) Gary Sanchez, C, Grade C+: Scouting reports point to enormous offensive potential, but would like to see him in game action before ranking higher.

8) John Murphy, C, Grade C+: Scouts like the bat a lot, but raw defensively. As with Sanchez, need to see what balance he finds between tools and skills.

9) Kelvin De Leon, OF, Grade C+: Broken record: great tools, lots of power potential, questions about plate discipline, need more data from higher levels.

10) D.J. Mitchell, RHP, Grade C+: Picks up tons of grounders, throws strikes, very athletic, needs better secondary pitches to reach his full potential.

11) Wilkin De La Rosa, LHP, Grade C+: Live-armed lefty needs sharper command. Great trade bait.

12) David Adams, 2B, Grade C+: Power spiked in the Florida State League. If he maintains that, could be a nice surprise in Double-A in '10.

13) Corban Joseph, 2B-3B, Grade C+: Sleeper prospect, hits for average and controls zone well, might develop some power to go with it.

14) Adam Warren, RHP, Grade C+: Polished college pitcher could develop into another inning-eater type.

15) Neil Medchill, OF, Grade C+: Excellent power from the left side in the New York-Penn League, but batting average/OBP against better pitching are in question.

16) David Phelps, RHP, Grade C+: Looks like a sleeper to me, finished season with brilliant run in the Florida State League. Notre Dame product.

17) Andrew Brackman, RHP, Grade C: He's horrible as a starter, but has a chance to develop in the bullpen.

18) Jose Ramirez, RHP, Grade C: Can hit 95-96 MPH and pitched well in rookie ball; sleeper candidate to emerge in '10.

19) Jeremy Bleich, LHP, Grade C: The Yankees like him a lot more than I do, but I can't rate him higher than this given how badly he pitched in Double-A.

20) Bryan Mitchell, RHP, Grade C: Live arm, cost $800,000 to buy away from North Carolina, will need time but has a high ceiling.

OTHERS (All Grade C): Sean Black, RHP; Gavin Brooks, LHP; Jairo Heredia, RHP; Jamie Hoffman, OF; Brandon Laird, 3B; DeAngelo Mack, OF; Melky Mesa, OF; Juan Miranda, 1B; Hector Noesi, RHP; Ivan Nova, RHP; Eduardo Nunez, SS; Kevin Russo, 2B; Romulo Sanchez, RHP; Graham Stoneburner, RHP; Brad Suttle, 3B; Pat Venditte, RHP-LHP; Kevin Whelan, RHP.

Minor League Notes from Chad Jennings

Chad Jennings just posted a 2-part interview with Mark Newman of the Yankees organization. He answered many questions about various position players and pitchers.

Enjoy:

• One reason for Colin Curtis' impressive performance in the AFL is a change in his stance; he led the league in OPS.
• Jesus Montero will start in AAA, Austin Romine in AA, Kyle Higashioka in Low-A, and Gary Sanchez and J.R. Murphy in Extended Spring Training. It is "undefined" who will start in High-A right now.
• Possible signee Aroldis Chapman has a great fastball, but spotty command and secondary pitches. He said if he were to sign he would start in High-A or AA.
• He is still talking up Jeremy Bleich. He said he could move quickly next year.
• If Romulo Sanchez doesn't make the bullpen out of spring training, he will start in AAA.
• The AA rotation will consist of at least Hector Noesi, Wilkins de la Rosa, Jeremy Bleich, and Chris Garcia - who will be ready for the start of the season.
• Dellin Betances will be ready to start in High-A sometime early in the season.
• Newman claims that Andrew Brackman still has top-of-the-rotation "stuff."

Brandon and Gerald Laird Arrested

According to T. Michael Andrews of the East Valley Tribune, Yankee prospect Brandon Laird, along with his brother and current Detroit Tigers catcher Gerald Laird were arrested Wednesday night.

Gerald was arrested for assault while Brandon was arrested for disorderly conduct. According to the report, the Laird brothers, along with a third man were arrested during the Celtics-Suns game at U.S. Airways Arena. Police say that they were contacted about their loud behavior, were allowed back into the lounge after a discussion with the security, but a fight broke out and they assaulted the security guards.

Gerald hit .225 with the Tigers last year while Laird hit .266 with 13 homers with the Tampa Yankees, the Yankees’ High-A affiliate.

Pointing You Elsewhere on Christmas

I hope everyone out there is having an enjoyable Christmas day – whether or not you celebrate. As a Christmas gift, I am going to point you elsewhere, to a few interesting links.

Nathaniel Stoltz of the Bleacher Report makes an argument that Sergio Mitre does notactually suck at the game of baseball. Very interesting read actually: See here.

iYankees has videos from Johnny Damon’s appearance on RAW: See here. And from me, a personal favorite – Johnny Damon’s greatest acting job of all time: See here.

Billy Price lists why it sucks to be a Mets fan: See here.

Trent Lare: A Christmas Feel Good Story

In mid-July of 2009, the Yankees signed an indy-leaguer named Trent Lare. Lare, who would turn 25 years old in August of that 2009, had never had any professional experience. He had spent three years with the Kalamazoo Kings of the Frontier League after a tenure at Oklahoma State University.

Well believe it or not, this 25-year old got promoted twice in the few months that he spent in the organization, dominating Staten Island and Charleston along the way as a starting pitcher.

With Staten Island, a Short-season Low-A affiliate, he put up a 1.07 ERA over 33.2 innings with a 38/3 K/BB ratio and a 0.68 WHIP. With Charleston, a full-season Low-A affiliate, put up a 2.76 ERA over 42.1 innings with a 35/7 K/BB ratio and a 1.02 WHIP. Furthermore, he pitched in Game 5 of the Championship Series with High-A Tampa, while pitching one regular season game as well with them.

I interviewed him back in July, basically a day after he signed with the Yankees. Basically, I was interested in his story and he was happy to answer questions for me.

Last week I was able to interview Lare again, a few months off of the conclusion of his excellent season. Here is the interview I conducted:

Steven Schwartz: Could you take me through your first day in affiliated ball? What was it like the day of your first start?

Trent Lare: My first day was pretty basic, when I got to the field. Met the coaches, did some paper work, played catch, and tried to meet as many of the guys as possible.

SS: When you joined the Yankees, did they try to alter your mechanics or pitching style at all? What did they work with you on?

TL: There were a few minor adjustments with mechanics that they made. Mainly out of the stretch, trying to make my delivery a little bit more consistent going to the plate by taking out some wasted movement. As for my pitching style I wouldn’t say they tried to change it just gave me some suggestions on pitch selection and things like that.

SS: After looking at your statistics, something jumped out to me. Even though you made the jump from independent league ball to professional ball, your walk-rate was cut in half, your WHIP decreased significantly, your hit-rate decreased, and your K-rate increased. What do you attribute this improvement to?

TL: I really don’t know if there was just one thing that I did better than any other year other than just concentrating on trying to be as consistent as possible every time I took the mound. Most of that I would contribute to the routine that I followed in between appearances.

SS: Where do you expect to start next year? Any personal goals/expectations for next season?

TL: I don’t really know where I am going to start at next year. I’m just taking the approach in spring training that I have to prove myself so I’m going to go to spring training ready to go and see what happens.

SS: How does the minor league lifestyle compare to that of indy leagues? Is it much nicer?

TL: It was pretty much the same and indy ball as far as bus rides; I would have to say that the hotels in affiliated ball are a bit nicer though.

SS: Did you before the season think that you would have THIS much success in affiliated ball? Did you think that you would be able to make it all the way to High-A ball in only a couple of months? Or was your success a bit of a surprise to you?

TL: Making it to High A was a pretty big surprise, and being able to start game 5 of the championship series with everything on the line was truly awesome. I will admit that I was surprised to get moved once let alone twice.

SS: Do you have a second job during the offseason?

TL: Yes, I work in a small warehouse in Kansas City, KS. I have worked there every off season for the last 3 years doing various things.

Well, there is the short-but-sweet interview. I will absolutely be rooting for Lare this year.

The Search for a Left Fielder

rian Cashman has already come out saying that if they add a left fielder, it would be someone on the cheap – somewhere around $4 million dollars max. That to me eliminates the following free agents from consideration: Matt Holliday, Jason Bay, andJohnny Damon. Furthermore, John Heyman is also claiming that Mark DeRosa has been offered a 2-year/$12 million dollar deal from the Giants – that takes him out of consideration in my book.

Quite frankly, that leaves a limited number of free agent outfielders that could hypothetically play left field full or part time. Using the MLBTradeRumors Free Agent ListI can put together a small pool of players who would not be terrible, and a list of players that I want nowhere near the Yankees.

Possibilities: Johnny Gomes, Reed Johnson, Marcus Thames, Endy Chavez, Scott Podsednik, Jerry Hairston, Jr., Rick Ankiel, Gabe Gross, Eric Hinske, Xavier Nady, Jack Cust, Jermaine Dye, Ryan Church, and Rocco Baldelli.

I’m going to automatically eliminate those that cannot play outfield – goodbye to Jack Cust, Marcus Thames, Johnny Gomes, and Jermaine Dye.

Not I’m just going to eliminate players that should not be considered more than back-ups at this point considering their offensive output as of late: Rocco Baldelli, Jerry Hairston, Jr., Reed Johnson, Endy Chavez, Gabe Gr0ss and Ryan Church.

Two Tommy John surgeries is enough for me to eliminate Xavier Nady from this list.

In my book, that leaves the options down to Scott Podsednik, Rick Ankiel, and Eric Hinske.

Scott Podsednik: He had his best season since 2003 in 2009 – he put up a .764 OPS with 38 extra-base hits in 587 at-bats. Against righties in 2009 he had a .780 OPS with all but 7 of his extra-base hits against them. Fielding-wise? If put in left-field, he’s just okay according to FanGraphs.

Rick Ankiel: After putting together OPSs of .863 and .843 in 2007 and 2008, he only had a .672 last year. What happened? His line drive rate dropped about 4% and ground ball rate increased about 4%. His BABIP was only .06 less. Bill James is predicting a .763 OPS next year (with 18 homeruns in 375 at-bats). FanGraphs claims that he is a positive in left field, and we all know about his arm.

Eric Hinske: In 2008 Hinske had a .798 OPS and a 2009 in .780. FanGraphs claims he is a positive in left field. In his career he has a over .800 OPS against righties. He clearly enjoyed his time in New York and would not be expensive at all. He made only $1.5 million dollars last year.

Of course the Yankees have two in-house options: Brett Gardner and Jamie Hoffman.

Brett Gardner: He has incredible speed and put up a .724 OPS last year in 248 at-bats. He could easily steal 50 bases over the length of a full season and FanGraphs shows that he is an well above average fielder. He had a .781 OPS against lefties compared to a .700 against righties last year.

Jamie Hoffman: A Rule V pick from the Dodgers, Hoffman spent time with AA, AAA and MLB last year. He crushed AA with a .952 OPS and put together a .815 OPS with 8 homeruns in AAA over 257 at-bats. Hoffman had a significant righty/lefty difference as well. Overall in AA and AAA he had a .974 OPS against righties and .760 against lefties.

Based on this, I think the best move would be to just bring back Eric Hinske. Based on the match-ups, Girardi would have three different left field options – Gardner, Hinske, and Hoffman – and Hinske could also take the back-up first base roll. This combination would cost a total of a little more than $2 million dollars overall, and leave them with several options. They have the power guy in Hinske, the little-bit-of-everything in Hoffman, and the speedster in Gardner.

Thoughts?

Yankees Sign One, Cut Many

The Yankees may have picked up Javier Vazquez, but he is obviously the third most important pick-up today behind Mike Rivera and OF Javier Herrera.

According to Matt Eddy of Baseball America, the Yankees signed OF Javier Herrera to a minor league deal. Herrera, who will be 25 in April, had only 2 at-bats last season. In 2008 he put up a .769 OPS in 255 at-bats, with 9 homeruns over that time with the Athletics’ Double-A affiliate. He plays outfield and will either be in Trenton or Scranton.

The Yankees also made a significant number of cuts. They let go of RHP Pablo Hernandez (hasn’t played since 2007), RHP Alejando Martinez (2 appearances last year), RHP Paul Patterson (4.50 ERA in 17 games in low minors), RHP Brett Smith (7 starts in low minors), RHP Jeff Williams (13 appearances in Charleston), LHP Edwin Walker (14 games in Charleston), 1B Chris Smith (.091 batting average in 41 AB last year, 2008 – 5th round), OF Tommy Baldridge (.190 BA last year) OF Mitch Delaney(.178 BA last year), and OF Chad Gross (.145 BA last year).

Some other ex-Yankees and interesting names found some new homes. Matt DeSalvosigned with the Florida Marlins, Phil Humber and Adam Bostick signed with the Mets and Chris Stewart signed with the Padres.

This post can also be found at BronxBaseballDaily.com

Yankees Solidify Rotation with Javier Vazquez

Many reports were going a round the internets last night that the Yankees were working on a deal to add a starting pitcher. Well, the reports were true: the Yankees acquired SP Javier Vazquez from the Atlanta Braves.

The entire deal is this: Javier Vazquez and Boone Logan for Melky Cabrera, Michael Dunn, and Arodys Vizcaino.

The Yankees do not lose much in terms of immediate Major League talent. Cabrera is a solid outfielder but nothing special, so losing him does not mean too much to me. It allows Brett Gardner (hopefully) to get a full-time role for the 2010 season. Michael Dunn is a lefty reliever with heat with control issues, so he may have played a role this year. The big loss is Vizcaino.

Vizcaino is a very highly regarded teenage prospect. He dominated Staten Island this year and was ranked by Kevin Goldstein as the second best prospect in the Yankees system. Clearly, due to his youth he is still a question mark, but he could be a good pitcher down the line.

Vazquez had a fantastic year with the Braves, putting together a 2.87 ERA with a 1.03 WHIP. He struck out 238 over this time while walking only 44. He has had many good seasons in the past but none this good. Vazquez, 33, has only one-year left on his deal, which he will be making a little over $11 million dollars in 2010 with.

Boone Logan is a 25 year old lefty reliever with over 160 big league appearances already. However, in that time he has a 5.78 ERA. He's nothing.

New & Notes: Mike Rivera, Jesus Montero, Catchers

Chad Jennings reported some news on where Yankees catchers will start:

• Jesus Montero will be in Triple-A
• Austin Romine will be in Double-A
• Gary Sanchez and J.R. Murphy will be in extended spring training and play short season ball

The Yankees also added OF Javier Harrera on a minor league deal. Harrera, who will be 25 in April, had only 2 at-bats last year after having a .769 OPS (with 10 homeruns) in 255 at-bats the year before with the Atheletics' AA affiliate.

Furthermore, the Yankees signed C Mike Rivera to a minor league deal:

Rivera, 33, has spent seven seasons in the Major Leagues. He was with the Tigers (2001-02), Padres (2003), and the Brewers (2006-09). Rivera spent last season as the back-up catcher to Jason Kendall, and hit .228/.326/.342 with 2 homeruns in 114 at-bats.

He may have a chance to make the team as the third catcher; otherwise, he will be helping out Jesus Montero down in Triple-A.

Yankees Add Nick the Stick

The Yankees have found Nick Johnson, who will be their new designated hitter. It looks like Johnson will very likely be the new DH for the oncoming season, effectively ending Johnny Damon’s time in New York.

Johnson, an OBP, as been injured frequently. He missed time with a broken leg and a torn ligament in his wrist. He dropped down to only 8 home runs last year, likely due to this. With him being another year stronger can only help him. Any lingering effects from this injury are likely gone. Don’t be surprised to see his power soar.

So how do you feel about this deal? It is worth 1-year, $5.5 million.

Jamie Hoffman

A few days ago the Yankees selected OF Jamie Hoffman from the LA Dodgers via the Rule V Draft.  He is expected to fight for a back-up outfielder job.  Expect more on him later.

The Yankees lost two relievers in the draft: Zack Kroenke and Kanekoa Texeira.

Pettitte Returns for 1-Year

In a move that did not surprise anyone at all, the Yankees re-signed SP Andy Pettitte to a 1-year deal worth $11.75 million.

From Ken Rosenthal:

The Yankees are bringing back left-hander Andy Pettitte on a one-year contract worth $11.75 million.

Pettitte, who turns 38 on June 15, went 14-8 with a 4.16 ERA in 32 starts during the regular season, then 4-0 with a 3.52 ERA in the postseason, winning the clinching game of all three Yankees' playoff series.

Granderson Aboard: Now What?

The Yankees made a small yesterday afternoon by completing a three-team deal with the Diamondbacks and the Tigers which landed them Curtis Granderson, while they lost SP Ian Kennedy, RP Phil Coke, and OF Austin Jackson.

The actual terms of the deal:

The Diamondbacks picked up Ian Kennedy and SP Edwin Jackson from the Tigers.

The Tigers picked up Max Scherzer and Daniel Schlereth from the Diamondbacks, and Phil Coke and Austin Jackson from the Yankees.

The Yankees picked up Granderson.

In terms of what the Yankees lost...I don't really care much.  Kennedy was a big question mark, but will probably have a decent career as a #4 or #5 in the NL.  Coke is replaceable.  Austin Jackson could be decent, and looks to be league average at least, with some potential, but has ways to go.

The following is a post I just did on Bronx Baseball Daily (bronxbaseballdaily.com) which I recently joined full time:

he Yankees acquired OF Curtis Granderson yesterday in the 3-team deal.   Granderson’s addition that as of now they have four outfielders: Curtis Granderson, Nick Swisher, Brett Gardner, and Melky Cabrera.  In the perfect world, this is what the Yankees should do.

First of all, they should tell Curtis Granderson that he is playing left field.  Brett Gardner is the superior fielder here.  Brett Gardner’s UZR/150 in centerfield last year was over 15, while Granderson’s last year was only 1.9. Leave Nick Swisher in right field for now.

This fielding alignment means two things: 1) Melky Cabrera is left without a position and 2) a DH will be needed. 

First of all, I believe that the best move for them to make right now is to trade Melky Cabrera.  Cabrera will likely be making upwards of $2 million dollars.  Not only would that be being paid to a back-up outfield, it would be to an outfielder with a good amount of trade value.  I think it would be best for them to send him packing for a collection of prospects.  

They also have room for a DH.  I think that they should go with the Billy Beane DH method.  Go with an older, yet productive guy that can no longer field a position well.  This does not mean Hideki Matsui though; with his knee issues, stay away.

I have two or three options for this position.  One would be Nick Johnson.  He still has his very high OBP, and could possibly be in line for a power increase after hitting only 8 home runs last year, after missing most of the previous two seasons.  His career high was 23 in 2006.  A few teams after after him, so I would take the risk and offer him a 2-year deal.

Another could be Adam Dunn.  I have no idea if the Nationals are shopping him, but he would be a good pickup.  The Nationals and Yankees have a good relationship, and they might be tempted to drop his salary.

One more option…maybe.  The Yankees should look into Carlos Delgado.  After returning from his injury last year he had a .914 OPS, after a .871 with 38 home runs the year before.  He had no real history of injuries, unlike Matsui, so he could be worth a 1-year deal.

I think the Yankees should pass on Johnny Damon.  It seems that at this point he will need at least a 2-year deal.  If he signs with someone, expect at least $10 million dollars per year.  I love Damon, I just feel like this hefty deal is a big risk.  He is just an unnecessary expense when there are so many cheaper options out there.

Bruney Traded for Pick

Via a few days ago:

The Yankees added a little more room on the roster and saved a few bucks by trading Brian Bruney to the Washington Nationals in exchange for their Rule V Draft pick.  Their pick is the first in the draft.

The Bullpen Needs Work Right Now

After a rough beginning, the 2009 Yankees’ bullpen quickly became one of their biggest strengths.  Once they replaced guys such as Edwar Ramirez, Jose Veras, and Jonathan Albaladejo with David Robertson, Phil Hughes and Alfredo Aceves, it became a force to be reckon with.  With the exception of appearances by Brett Tomko, it was fairly young too.

But I’m a little afraid about it as of right now.

Mariano Rivera should have another dominant season in him; there is really no reason to believe otherwise, but elsewhere, I am concerned.

It is pretty much assumed that Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes will be in the rotation next year.  Brian Bruney was just traded to the Nationals today.  That means that (as of now) the only Yankee relievers with a decent amount of Major League experience going into next year will be Marte,  David Robertson,Chad Gaudin, and Alfredo Aceves.  With the exception of Robertson, can you consider any of these guys dominant or even consistent?  Marte had an excellent postseason, which is hopefully a sign that he is now healthy, but that’s no lock.  I would like to see Aceves in a more prominent role and Gaudin to have Aceves’ role from last year, but Aceves was inconsistent.  

I truly believe that they need to add a bullpen piece.  Whether it be a guy that is really not getting a lot of attention such as Kiko Calero or they swing a trade, I feel that right now they cannot trust the newest batch of minor leaguers.

Other pitchers currently on the 40-man roster are Albaladejo, Ramirez, Dunn, Wilkin de la Rosa, Chris Garcia, Ian Kennedy, Mark Melancon, Hector Noesi, Ivan Nova, and Romulo Sanchez.  The ones that even might be considered for a bullpen role are Melancon, Sanchez and Dunn. And to be frank, Sanchez and Dunn really are nothing special.

So what do you think, do the Yankees need to add a reliever?