Yanks Can Steal Valverde
By Mike Silva ~ December 18th, 2009. Filed under: Offseason Speculation.
There is no indication the Yankees are interested in Jose Valverde. However, yesterday Buster Olney said Valverde “is in a bad place” because no team wants to spend $10 million dollars on a closer. That led Tim Dierkes of MLBTR to speculate that Valverde could linger into February and become a bargain. I agree and earlier this offseason I thought the Yankees should look into bringing Valverde here on a short term deal to setup for Rivera.
How about a 1 year deal for about 8 million? You could add some incentives to get him to the $10 million mark. Not sure if this is the type of “must need” player that Cashman can get payroll approval for, but if you are going to have both kids in the rotation, as I talked about earlier, then additional bullpen help is necessary. I like Melancon, Dunn, and Robertson, but the Yankees bullpen could use a veteran arm to setup, and occasionally, spell Rivera. Why not bring in a former closer that may be desperate for a deal very soon.
Something to think about.
December 18th, 2009 at 10:06 am
Good call Mike. If he’s willing to sign for one year, he’d be perfect. I haven’t heard this talked about much, but how do you think the Yankee lineup will play itself out, with or without Damon.
Without?
Jeter, Granderson, Tex, Arod, Cano?, Posada Swisher, N. Johnson, Melky
I would think Granderson would have to bat second. Could this be the year that Cano moves into the 5 or 2 hole?
Thanks Mike!
December 18th, 2009 at 10:19 am
if they r committed to the kids in the rotation u cant go into the yr with robertson as ur primary set up guy.
December 18th, 2009 at 10:23 am
u cant put a guy like cano at 2. does get on base enough
same with granderson. let them drive in runs at 6-7-8
December 18th, 2009 at 10:37 am
Then who bats second if there’s no Damon? Melky? Ha
December 18th, 2009 at 11:48 am
nick johnson hits 2nd
perfect 2 hitter if damon leaves