The Yankees Are Looking at Reed Johnson
As the center field options continue to dwindle for the Chicago Cubs, one presumed back-up option might be heading out the window. We all keep saying that if the Marlon Byrd’s and Scott Podsednik’s of the world don’t end up working out for the Cubs (please), perhaps a Sam Fuld and Reed Johnson type platoon in center field might be an inexpensive and better defensive substitute.
I guess we should not just assume Johnson will wait around forever.
An NL executive and an agent told me the Yankees were talking regularly to the representatives for Reed Johnson. I can see the Yankee reasoning. As currently constituted, the Yanks have lefty-swingers Brett Gardner in left field and Curtis Granderson in center. Johnson can play all three outfield positions, and has long been a strong hitter against lefties. In 2009 against lefties, Johnson hit .324 with a .403 on-base percentage and a .500 slugging percentage; and for his career the numbers are .313/.378/.463. New York Post.
Johnson might not be a top line starter, but he is clearly one of the best reserve outfielders in the game. Even if he doesn’t figure into the center field picture, the Cubs should strongly consider making a serious push to re-sign him. He will be useful regardless.
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At least the love affair between byrd and henry seem to be over. But I agree they really should look long and hard about resigning Johnson. He is a great clubhouse guy and defender. He also hitting lefties pretty hard. And it looks like the cubs are going a trade route for a centerfielder. And it looks like there are going young or Johnson is a great safety net.
I wouldn’t be so sure about Byrd – he’s still Hendry’s top CF target, for better or worse.
I heard the byrd was asking for too much money. That why the were going the trade route.
Ace did you hear about the possible three way trade between Padres red soxs and cubs espn is reporrting
No, where did you hear/see it? I can’t find anything on it. I’m assuming it involves Gonzalez and Ellsbury somehow?
I saw it on ESPN rumors.
Hmm, I saw the Ellsbury rumor (which I’ll be writing up tomorrow morning), but not a three-way involving the Padres. I’ll keep scouring, but if you’ve got a link, I’d love to read it. Thanks Kevin.
Phil rogers reported on it
I saw it my phone on MVP espn.