New York Yankees Sign Ben Francisco; Looking For More?

Well, the New York Yankees certainly were involved in the news today. Let’s take a look at the guy who was signed, rather than the guys that they are taking a look at or trying to convince to come out of retirement.

Sep 29, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays left fielder

(13) hits a single against the Chicago White Sox during the second inning at U.S. Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

First off, they signed outfielder Ben Francisco to a minor-league deal mere hours after being released by the Cleveland Indians. Francisco will compete with Matt Diaz as the right-handed outfielder against left-handed pitching. Francisco played for the Houston Astros and Tampa Bay Rays, hitting .240 with two homers in 207 plate appearances. He’s a career .252 hitter against left-handed pitching and isn’t bad defensively.

Now to the guys they want in the infield. Brian Cashman talked about how he would love to have Chipper Jones in the fold. Chipper tweeted he’s not interested and I didn’t think he would be. The team has also contacted Derek Lee, who hasn’t played since 2011 and Scott Rolen. Neither are going to want to play part-time and would be once Mark Teixeira comes back.

Again, I’d rather see the team go out and get another Lee if they are going to go in the free agent marketplace in Carlos Lee. He played more recently than Derek and you can stick him at first base or DH and it wouldn’t take him as long to get ready. No word as to who else the team has contacted in free agency. I think the team waits and sees who gets waived at the end of Spring Training before doing anything.