The New York Yankees are partying like it’s 2012. Following the news that the team intends on speaking with Raul Ibanez about their vacant hitting coach position, Jon Heyman of CBS Sports reports that the team has hired Eric Chavez as a special assignments scout.
Chavez, 36, retired this past season from the Arizona Diamondbacks following yet another knee injury. Similar injuries shortened what looked early on to be a great career.
From 2001 through 2006 Chavez was regards as one of the best all around players in baseball for the Oakland Athletics. Manning the hot corner he routinely made playing the position look second nature, claiming six consecutive Gold Glove Awards. At the plate he hit .273/.351/.495 while averaging 29 home runs and 96 RBI a year.
Following the 2006 season is when the injuries started to mount. Chavez was let go by the A’s after the 2010 season before latching on with the Yankees as a part time player. He thrived in the role with New York for two seasons, batting .274/.338/.449 and proving he has something left to offer. Prior to the 2013 season he joined the D’backs.
For his career he hit .268/.342/.475 with 260 HR and 902 RBI.
Heyman notes that Chavez had a solid relationship with Brian Cashman and Asst. GM Billy Eppler from his time in New York. Chavez has long stated his desire to remain involved in the game following his playing days, so this news comes as no surprise.