MLB Free Agency: New York Yankees Sign Raul Ibanez to Upgrade DH Spot

After all the waiting for the New York Yankees' final decision at DH, they finally have an agreement with Raul Ibanez, according to Buster Olney of ESPN.

The signing comes after the trade of A.J. Burnett, which was thought to be the final catalyst in the move to sign Ibanez—or any DH, for that matter.

The terms have yet to be released but it will almost certainly be a one-year deal for the 39-year-old (40 in June) Ibanez for around $1 million to $2 million, which was the reported amount the Yanks were willing to spend.

Last season, Ibanez had 20 home runs and 84 RBI with the Philadelphia Phillies and spent his time in the outfield. He did have a career-low .245 average, but even so, his numbers greatly eclipse those of the Yanks' last DH, Jorge Posada.

The choice ended up being between either Ibanez or Johnny Damon, but Ibanez's ability to play a solid outfield defensively gave him the edge over Damon. Ibanez will still allow the Bombers to rest their aging stars for a half day at DH and in that case.

Ibanez is the perfect choice because of his power and the fact that he's a lefty in Yankee Stadium, a huge advantage to have with the short right-field porch.

The only thing left in question is if the Yankees are done spending or if they'll open up the wallet one last time to sign Eric Chavez as well and bring him back for another season.

There's also no telling what will happen to Russell Branyan, who was no doubt an insurance policy if general manager Brian Cashman couldn't land a DH via free agency.

It took longer than expected, but it appears the Yankees finally have their man, and with the exception of one minor move, it appears New York is set for the 2012 season.

Now, let's play some baseball!