Yesterday I wrote how the Yankees could use an infusion of versatility and power on their bench. Last year they acquired Eric Hinske and Jerry Hairston Jr. to provide power, versatility, and depth. This year, thus far, the results haven’t been as good as Randy Winn, Marcus Thames, Juan Miranda, and Kevin Russo have all struggled. One name to keep an eye on is Jorge Vazquez, who was promoted to Scranton last night.

As Donnie Collins of The Times-Tribune reported, Vazquez was scheduled to begin the year in Scranton, but had an appendectomy late in spring training that set him back. Upon his return he has been playing in Trenton, hitting .390 with 6 RBI in 41 at bats. Primarily a first baseman, Vazquez has been playing some third the last few games, quite ably may I add as I had the chance to see him make a couple of nice plays this weekend.

Who is Jorge Vazquez and why would a 28 year old minor leaguer help the Yankees? He was signed out of the Mexican League in 2009 by the same scout that discovered Manuel Banuelos and Alfredo Aceves. He has power (hit as many as 33 homers in a season) and can get on base with a career .369 OBP between the Mexican League and professional baseball. His first year in organized ball he put up a .939 OPS for the Thunder hitting 13 homers and driving in 56 runs in just 238 plate appearances.

With the injuries to A-Rod, struggles of Mark Teixeira, and the need to have someone DH from time to time Vazquez could fit very nicely in the Bronx. Now that it appears Marcus Thames is headed to the DL they will be down a right handed power bat. Vazquez fits that description perfectly. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see the former Mexican League star in the Bronx before the season is out.

Mike Silva is a freelance writer and radio host since March of 2007. This website is his own personal "digest" of New York Baseball He's also hosts NYBD Radio on Blog Talk Radio and 1240 AM WGBB. Check out his sports media commentary at www.sportsmediawatchdog.com. Check out his official website, www.mikesilvamedia.com

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Tags: Jorge Vazquez, New York Yankees, Scranton Wilkes Barre Yankees, Trenton Thunder