Yankees Rumors: Eric Chavez and Mariano Rivera
By Editorial Staff
The New York Yankees appear to be close to finishing their roster additions as they prepare for the 2012 season. Yesterday it was reported that the Yankees reached an agreement with free agent Raul Ibanez. Now that the deal is official, New York is reportedly focusing on another potential free agent acquisition, Eric Chavez.
New York has been eyeing Chavez for some time now, and hopes to add the veteran for another go-round as a reserve player. According to Andrew Marchand of ESPNNewYork.com, the Yankees like Chavez as a “valet” for third baseman Alex Rodriguez. Chavez also has the ability to man first base for New York as needed.
Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com chimed in yesterday, confirming that the Yankees were discussing a deal with Chavez. Heyman added that if New York and Chavez reach an agreement, the veteran’s contract is expected to be of the major league variety.
Beyond the Chavez situation, a current member of the Yankees stirred discussion yesterday with his comments.
Future Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera spoke with reporters regarding retirement yesterday afternoon. Rivera told the press that he knows what he will do following the season but is not sharing the news with anyone publically. Rivera has hinted at retirement before and has apparently changed his mind, but he said that this year his mind is made up one way or another for 2013.
The 42-year-old is entering his 18th season with the Yankees. Rivera has already tallied the most saves in major league history (603) and isn’t showing any signs of slowing down. Last season the right-hander turned in one of his best performances, posting an ERA and WHIP of 1.91 and 0.897 while compiling 44 saves over his 61 1/3 innings pitched.
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