Second big move (Yankees acquire Swisher)
The Yankees made a big trade today. The Yankees acquired OF/1B Nick Swisher
I really like the trade. Swisher is 27 and can play first base. He also can play Centerfield as well as corner outfield positions. He is under contract for a reasonable amount for the next 3 years. He strikes out too much and hit .219 last year but I think he is a better player than that. He is a switch hitter and was a first round draft pick in 2002. I think he can put up a lot better numbers in 2009.
The Yankees also got a minor league pitcher Texiera who is pretty much a push with giving up Nunez. He had very good numbers at A and AA last year and reportedly has a very good slider.
I am very happy to see Betemit go, he was a waste of a roster spot. Marquez is 24 and may turn into a pretty good starter but you have to give up something to get something. His stuff is scouted as being very similar to the Wanger. The Yankees have depth in prospect pitching so it is not a major loss.
The Yankees also opened up two 40-man roster spots and filed one with Swisher which means they opened up one spot on a very tight 40 man roster.
Overall I really like the trade. Now the Yankees can focus on starting pitching in the free agent market and not have to overpay for Texiera at first base.
I told ya it was going to be a busy offseason. Free agency starts at midnight tonight. Hold on tight, going to be an interesting 2 months.