With Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Curtis Granderson and Mark Teixeira likely out for Opening Day, the New York Yankees need an impact bat in the middle of their lineup. They may have found their answer. Emphasis on the word "may." According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the Yanks are close to completing a deal that will send Vernon Wells to the Big Apple. While the deal ultimately lands on Wells' shoulders since the 34-year-old outfielder does have a no-trade clause in place, sources are reporting that he would accept the trade. Now, back to the word "may."
Over the last two years with the Angels, Wells has missed 116 games and batted .222, which happens to be 51 points below his career batting average (.273). Last season, Wells posted some of the worst stats of his 14-year career with 11 homers and 29 RBIs in only 77 games.
Wells is set to make $21 million in each of the last two seasons of his seven-year, $126M contract, but it's being reported that Angels would need to absorb a large amount of the remaining deal to get a deal done. With a combination of Wells' potential and the bandbox, that is, Yankee Stadium, could a career revival be in order? Or, is Vernon well past his golden years?
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[via ESPN]
