The Yankees continue to stockpile bats while keeping options open for a left-handed designated hitter. One day after inking the versatile Bill Hall to a Minor League contract, the team signed Russell Branyan to the same terms with an invite to Spring Training. The report in the New York Post also adds that since Branyan, 36, plays both corner infield positions, this may have increased the odds on an Eric Chavez return.
Branyan provides lefty power, having hit 31 home runs for the Mariners in 2009, and a combined 25 with the Indians and Mariners in 2010. He struggled last season with the Diamondbacks and Angels (.197-5-14, 68 games). He does have eight homers in 47 at-bats at the new Yankee Stadium, including this one that reached the upper deck off Javier Vazquez on August 21, 2010, and the sports bar in center field off Alfredo Aceves in 2009.
The Yankees can still sign Raul Ibanez, Johnny Damon or Hideki Matsui. Branyan is another bench option who will compete with Hall, Ramiro Pena and Brandon Laird.
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