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Shane Victorino to the Yankees seems very likely

by Tim Moczula       July 20th, 2012 11:58 AM
  • Shane-Victorino-to-the-Yankees-seems-very-likely
  • Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino dives for the hit from New York Mets center fielder Kirk Nieuwenhuis during the first inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-US PRESSWIRE

    • Early this season, Yankee outfielder Brett Gardner injured his elbow while diving for a catch. At the time, it was not thought to be serious, but pain continued and now he will undergo season-ending surgery. With the deadline swiftly approaching, New York should consider a trade, specifically for Shane Victorino.

    The Philadelphia outfielder can give the Bombers what they've been missing all season: speed. The Yankees rank 24th in stolen bases (49) and are missing Gardner's ability to work in runs. He has stolen over 45 bases in each of the past two seasons and is extremely useful when his team is struggling to find offense. Victorino can help fill that void. He has had three seasons with 30+ stolen bases and already has 19 this year. Although the Yankees have been fine relying on the long ball, the postseason will not be so easy, as home runs become scarce and a player who can manufacture runs is essential.

    Victorino's speed will also help the team defensively. Gardner was a force in the outfield and covered more ground than any other player in 2011. His range allowed him to assist Curtis Granderson, who is one of the worst outfielders in the league defensively. Victorino might not be quite as fast as Gardner, but the 3x Gold Glove winner will definitely be an upgrade from the current roster. With Raul Ibanez (40) and Andruw Jones (35), there are questions if the outfield is durable enough to make it through October. Victorino is only 31 and would add some youth to the lineup.

    A trade for Victorino seems like a good idea, and there are a lot of things that suggest it will happen. The most obvious is that he becomes a free agent after the season. He has been having a poor season, and it's clear the Phillies do not intend on re-signing him. If they wish to get the most out of him, he must be moved before the deadline.

    The Yankees are perfect suitors. They have an actual need for Victorino's talents and the prospects to acquire him. Because of his subpar season, his value is lower and the Phils will probably be fine with two prospects. New York does not have many at Double-A or above, but they are loaded in Single-A. Philly will most likely look for one high level Class A prospect and a medium level from Double or Triple-A.

    Bringing in Victorino for a few prospects is exactly what New York is looking for. They have a nice cushion in the AL East (9 games) and are aiming at the World Series. Victorino brings in championship experience (2008), and his expiring contract demands no long-term commitments. With Justin Upton's ability to block a trade to New York, it seems that a move for Victorino is imminent.

    What did you think? Leave a comment

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