New York Yankees not done with their offseason moves – MLB News
It seems the New York Yankees are not done making their offseason moves. After taking care of their starting rotation as they signed Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte and Hiroki Kuroda, the Yankees have now shifted their focus to the batting lineup.
On Tuesday, the Yankees agreed to a one year $12 million contract with former Boston Red Sox’s third baseman Kevin Youkilis. Yankees had been in his pursuit for the last couple of weeks but Youkilis was seeking a long term contract and he had to weight Yankees’ offer against several other offers before making the decision.
According to ESPN.com, the Yankees are also showing interest in veteran outfielder Ichiro Suzuki. A source familiar with the situation said the deal could be finalised as soon as the end of this week.
Suzuki had an excellent time on the plate for the Yankees last season as he hit .322 in 67 games. Showing great composure and mental strength, he quickly became a fan favourite. The 39 year old was moved to New York from Seattle Marines as part of a mid season trade in 2012.
“He has a lot of interest from two or three teams but it could get done in the next couple of days,’’ a person familiar with the situation said of Ichiro returning to the Yankees..
Even if Suzuki officially returns to the Yankees, their outfield situation will not be fully set. Sources have said that the Yankees are listening to offers for center fielder Curtis Granderson, and there still is an outside chance that New York could bid for free agent Josh Hamilton,” Andrew Marchand of ESPN.com said in his post.
After Nick Swisher departed from New York, Yankees’ need to sign another outfielder has grown tremendously. Ichiro is an extremely experienced campaigner and he is expected to help the Yankees overcome their batting problems.
Even if he returns, the Yankees could add another bat to their lineup. According to sources, Manager Joe Girardi has his eyes on right hander Scott Hairston, the former New York Met who is capable of playing both right field and left field.
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