Thames Could Be a Bargain
By Mike Silva ~ February 8th, 2010. Filed under: Mike Silva, New York Yankees.
The signing of Marcus Thames to a 900k deal could become a steal for the Yankees. Not only is Thames a possible platoon partner for Brett Gardner in left, but he could replace Nick Johnson at DH if he gets hurt.
For his career Thames has put up an OPS+ of 104, slightly above league average, but the story against left handers is where his real value lies.
His career splits against lefties is .256/.323/.453 for an OPS of .845
His OPS+ against left handers is 113.
It will be hard for Thames to crack the Yankees roster with Randy Winn already in the fold. Johnson, although left handed, fares well against lefties for his career. Personally the Yankees already have a pretty decent defensive outfield with Gardner, Granderson, and Swisher. If Thames shows that he can mash the ball, specifically against lefties, in spring training I wouldn’t mind giving him a shot as the fourth outfielder. This will be Thames second stint with the club as he was part of the Yankees system from 1997-2003.
Good signing for Brian Cashman who continues to have a solid offseason.
