Johnny Damon is a decent DH option for New York Yankees – MLB News
New York Yankees’ executive Brian Cashman has finally decided to take actions to strengthen his starting rotation. Last season, Yankees’ starting rotation struggled to achieve their desired results as they failed to deliver the goods on crucial occasions.
Cashman is looking to build the best possible team for the Yankees’ 2012 season campaign.
In an interview with a baseball website, Cashman explained why Yankees had said they were not looking to consider DH options for 2012. Instead, they are looking to add more variety to their starting rotation. However, if his strategy does not pay off, Cashman
will have a lot of questions to answer.
While Johnny Damon’s inclusion in the Yankees’ side is still possible, the Yankees are still looking at their options and preferences. They could bring one of their brightest DH prospects, Jorge Vazquez into the side. The 29-year-old displayed some high
quality hitting skills in the Triple A league, hitting 32 home runs with a stunning .830 OPS last season.
To add more variety to their pitching unit, they could also consider trading the pitcher Hector Noesi and catcher/designated hitter for two pitchers; Jose Campos and Michael Pineda. The Yankees have already signed a one year contract with right hander Hiroki
Kuroda. Having spent so much on their pitching department, they will not be able to spend lavishly on their DH options.
If the Yankees do not acquire a designated hitter, Alex Rodriguez will have to DH on a semi regular basis this season. Carlos Pena and Hideki Matsui could also be used to perform DH duties.
Johnny Damon was absolutely brilliant from 2006-2009 as he helped the Yankees secure memorable wins. The outfielder, however, moved to Tampa Bay Rays in 2011, agreeing to a one year $ 5.25 million contract.
Damon produced match winning performances for the Rays during the past season including a game winning hit for the fifth consecutive game. If he is signed on by the Yankees, Damon will be looking to prove his metal. The Yankees, on the other hand, need to
decide quickly on whether they want to play a DH or a pitcher.
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