Melky for Javy, Johnson Signing

Okay, so my last post about the Yankees manufacturing trade rumors might have been a bit off base. Shortly after that post, the news finally broke that the team was actually talking to the Atlanta Braves. The Yankees reacquired starting pitcher Javier Vazquez in a deal that sent outfielder Melky Cabrera to the Braves. In addition to Cabrera, they sent pitcher Mike Dunn and another minor leaguer to Atlanta for Vazquez and pitcher Boone Logan.

Yankee fans were divided upon hearing of the trade. Many were fond of Melky and thought that he was worth more. Some were perplexed, since Vazquez's first stint with the team was somewhat disappointing. On the other side, fans were ecstatic that the Yankees had greatly improved the back end of their starting rotation. Also, the departure of Cabrera seemed to leave the door open for the possible return of Johnny Damon. Melky became expendable when the Yankees traded for CF Curtis Granderson at the Winter Meetings.

In other news last week, the Yankees finalized their deal with Nick Johnson. The first baseman, who played for the Florida Marlins last season, figures to fill the DH spot most of the time for New York. He can also spell Mark Teixeira occasionally in the field.

Left field is the biggest remaining question for 2010. Will the Yankees give Brett Gardner a chance to win the job? Will they sign Damon? Mark DeRosa, a New Jersey native who reportedly wants the job? Jermaine Dye?