Yankees Sign Randy Winn, Damon’s Days with Yankees are Over

The Yankees have signed free agent outfielder Randy Winn to a one-year, $2 million deal. The signing officially ends Johnny Damon’s run as a Yankee. Winn will be the team’s fourth outfielder and will be able to spell either Gardner or Granderson at left field.

Versatility is key for the Yankees in the outfield. Gardner and Granderson can each play left or center. This gives the Yankees options. When Winn plays in left, either Gardner or Granderson can play center field.

Most people will yawn at this signing, but the Yankees brought in Winn as a veteran insurance policy if one of their outfielders gets injured and he will be an experienced player to use to give Gardner and Granderson days off.

I would have liked to see the Yankees go with a young player as their fourth outfielder, but I understand their need for a veteran outfielder. This means youngsters like rule 5 draft pick Jamie Hoffman and recently acquired Greg Golson won’t make the 25-man roster.