While landing Ubaldo Jimenez would certainly make a bigger splash, another available pitcher would probably make more sense for the Yankees: Erik Bedard.
No, Bedard is not as good of a pitcher as Jimenez, and no, he does not have as much upside. He can however still be a productive pitcher and comes at a much more reasonable price than Jimenez.
The Yankees are not the only team interested in Bedard. Ken Rosenthal reported on Twitter that the Red Sox are interested in Bedard, especially with the news that Clay Buchholz experienced a set-back and needs to see a specialist over the weekend. Even though there is other competition for Bedard, he can still be had for considerably less than Jimenez. A mid-level prospect would probably get the deal done, and the team that receives Bedard would not be on the hook for much money. Bedard signed a one year incentive-based contract with Seattle this year so the Yankees (or team that trades for him) would only be paying the minimum salary plus incentives. Furthermore, if Bedard gets injured—he has been injured for most of the past three seasons—the team would not owe him anything.
Bedard, despite his injuries, is having a productive year for Seattle. In 90 innings pitched he has only given up 74 hits, while holding opponents to a .222 BA. His splits versus lefties and righties are virtually the same (his numbers against righties are actually slightly better), and he has had some experience pitching in the American League East. Other than the fact that he will provide another starter for the Yankees, he is a much needed left handed pitcher; something the Yankees lack.
Something to watch for—a lot of teams will be—is Bedard’s start versus Tampa Bay this Friday. Regardless of his performance, Bedard will be dealt, but if he shuts the Rays down then you could see a huge push for Bedard on Saturday and Sunday.
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Andrew Rotondi
NYYUniverse.com Staff Writer
Follow me on Twitter @Yankees_talk
