(Photo by Marc Serota/Getty Images)
In an attempt to add bench depth at the deadline, the New York Yankees have acquired Cincinnati Reds' utilityman Jerry Hairston Jr.
While it was not known who was traded at first, it has been confirmed that the Yankees sent Single-A Charleston catcher Chase Weems to the Reds.
In 86 appearances this season, Hairston Jr. has hit .254 with 78 hits in 307 at-bats, including eight home runs and 27 RBI.
However, his true usefulness comes in defense—he has played all three outfield positions in addition to second base, third base, and shortstop.
This most likely means that Cody Ransom has seen his last days in pinstripes, as Hairston Jr. provides more versatility and can actually hit somewhat decently.
Chase Weems has struggled a bit with the RiverDogs this season, hitting .260 in 55 games played this season with 45 hits in 173 at-bats, one home run, and 14 RBI. While Weems was drafted in the sixth round in 2007, he has become mired in the Yankees' minor league system behind top catching prospects such as Francisco Cervelli, Jesus Montero, and Austin Romine, making him virtually expendable.
While he didn't get a solid back-of-the-rotation starter as expected, Yankees fans have to give Brian Cashman some credit—at least they won't have to endure another horrible 0-for-4 night from Ransom when Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, or Robinson Cano needs a night off. He can also serve as a temporary fill-in for Brett Gardner, who is on the disabled list with a broken thumb.
In short, while this is nowhere near the big-name trade that the Yankees were looking for, it may be a move that will pay dividends when the end of the season rolls around.
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