MLB Free Agents: New York Yankees Sign David Aardsma
By Editorial Staff
It appears my assumption that the New York Yankees were finished spending money this offseason was incorrect. You know what happens when you assume. MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch is reporting that the Yankees have reached an agreement with free agent reliever David Aardsma. The 30-year-old right-hander recieved a major league deal worth $500,000.
According to Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is saying that the agreement with Aardsma has more to do with the 2013 season than it does ‘12. New York’s agreement with Aardsma includes a club option for next season.
This makes sense as Aardsma missed the entire 2011 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Because of this, the Yankees won’t be expecting anything out of Aardsma until at least after the All-Star break.
Still, the signing is a nice low-cost move for a club that could be in need of a closer for the 2013 season. Veteran finisher Mariano Rivera has hinted at retirement already this spring, and many are speculating 2012 could be his final year with the Yankees.
In 2010 Aardsma logged an ERA and WHIP of 3.44 and 1.168 to go with his 31 saves over 49 2/3 innings pitched for the Seattle Mariners. He was even better in ’09 when he maintained an ERA and WHIP of 2.52 and 1.164 over his 71 1/3 with 38 saves and a 10.1 SO/9.
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You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.