MLB Rumors: Would New York Yankees Consider Mark Reynolds?

By Christopher Gamble

 

Joy R. Absalon-US PRESSWIRE

The New York Yankees have several holes to fill this off-season and one of the biggest holes could be replacing Eric Chavez. Chavez is about to turn 35-years-old next week and has an injury history as thick as Derek Jeter’s black book. He also hasn’t confirmed that he would like to play another year.

If Chavez decides not to return for another year the Yankees could be stuck looking for help as a back-up third baseman and first baseman. This is where Mark Reynolds, recently non-tendered by the Baltimore Orioles, would make an interesting addition to the Yankees lineup.

Sure, Reynolds is guaranteed to strike out at least three times a game, even when he isn’t playing. However, Reynolds also brings defensive versatility, even if he isn’t stellar at either first or third, and a lot of right-handed power.

The Yankees don’t have a lot of right-handed pop. Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira, who is a switch hitter, represent the majority of the Yankees pop from the right side. Adding a potential 30-homer bat to the lineup would be pretty big, even if a .220 average and 180+ strikeouts accompany those 30 homers.

Reynolds could act as Alex Rodriguez’s back-up at third and Teixeira’s back-up at first while splitting time at DH with Raul Ibanez, if the Yankees re-sign him.

Reynolds would be a great addition to the Yankees lineup but the financial limitations the Yankees have self-imposed might prevent them from making a serious run at Reynolds.

The Yankees still have a busy off-season ahead of them as they seek to fill holes at back-up third base, middle infield, right field, designated hitter, and catcher. Some of the replacements might already be on the roster but some might still be lurking out there, either on another team’s roster or waiting for a phone call from GM Brian Cashman. Keep an eye out on the MLB rumors as the Winter Meetings begin this week.

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