Swishing It Up

After 1 spectacular season, 2 solid ones, and three horrendous postseasons, the Yankees triggered their option on RF Nick Swisher. Their reasons were simple:

1) They like him
2) Can you find someone better?

I can't argue with the first claim.

The second one is dubious.

His stats during three seasons in New York are:

424/1590 H/AB
81 home runs
256 RBIs
1-time All-Star

However, in 24 postseason games, he has been a complete disaster, hitting only .169 in THREE YEARS!

The Yankees deserve an upgrade, but they aren't willing to commit to Carlos Beltran because of health reasons, and the right fielder market this season is weak, topping off with Beltran, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel, and (don't get me started about!) J.D. Drew.

But then you get to a familiar face, a borderline Hall of Famer, and a man whom I have liked since the Yankee Dynasty began.

Andruw Jones

The 10-time Gold Glove centerfielder could be a valuable piece of the Yankees if he is placed in right field. He is the youngest man to ever homer in the World Series (1996 Game 3 at the age of 19 off of Andy Pettitte)!

He has proved that he can be an excellent fielder and hitter, and is familiar with the Yankees and the players, so why not try it?

What have they got to lose?

Oh, yes, there's that?

Swisher strikes out with the bases loaded in game 5 of the 2011 ALDS. Not to be confused with him striking out with the bases loaded in the 2009 ALDS.