Yankees, Damon and Matsui

Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui were pivotal players for the 2009 World Series Champion Yankees. They may not be back to help the Yankees defend their title in 2010. Both players have said they would like to return, but in recent years, the Yankees have been opposed to bringing back older, less athletic, one-dimensional players.   

A few years ago, the Yankees wouldn’t guarantee Bernie Williams a roster spot after his contract expired. The Yankees only offered him an invitation to Spring Training as a non-roster invitee. Bernie’s abilities were diminished at this point, unlike Damon and Matsui’s abilities which they showed in 2009 they still have something left. Last season, the Yankees didn’t work with Bobby Abreu or Jason Giambi after their contracts expired. Abreu had a good year too. He batted .296 with 20 home runs and 100 RBIs. This doesn’t bode well for Damon or Matsui.

If the price is right, it’s not out of the question for the Yankees to bring back one or even both of them. It’s not like they are the same player. While Matsui’s only use is as a DH and bats in the middle of the order, Damon still has some speed in his legs, is average in the outfield and is a top of the order type of guy. The question is whether the price will be right. Damon and his agent Scott Boras are allegedly looking for a four-year deal. The Yankees will let Damon walk if they don’t budge. The Yankees will not be bringing either guy back for more than two years and even that may be a stretch. Look for Damon and Matsui to come back on one-year deals, if at all.