The Cardinals have been surprised at the level of interest in center fielder Rick Ankiel. The Yankees have been among at least five teams looking into obtaining Ankiel. The Braves, Rays and Giants are among the others. ... He is one year removed from free agency and as a Scott Boras client almost certainly will test the market. However, he should make only about $3 million as an arbitration-eligible player in 2009.In 2007 he hit .285/.328/.535 with 11 HR and 39 RBI in 47 games.
St. Louis has two needs: A closer and a starter.
And in 2008 he hit .264/.337/.506 with 25 HR and 71 RBI in 120 games.
Also a person in the comments mentioned his arm in center, here's a video of him showing off that arm.
It's an interesting idea, and I wouldn't mind if they acquired him as long as they didn't have to give up a lot. But in terms of the Yankees off-season priorities I think centerfield should be pretty low on their list.
What do you guys think, trade for Ankiel or go with the internal options (Gardner/Melky/Damon)?
7 Comments:
if the price is right. i like ankiel, he's a gamer.
I'm with Dan.
Mike
Ankiel is a gamer. If I remember correctly, he is a pretty good defensive CF as well. At least he has a good arm. His bat may only get him a 270.-280. average but he does possess the power. I think Ian Kennedy would be a pretty solid return for Ankiel.
His arm is sick in center, his range is pretty average.
And yea, I'd probably trade Kennedy for him.
Yeah I would try to get Ankiel that would be a much better upgrade in cf and much better than trading for mike cameron. Then you can have Gardner coming in for pinch running or defense and occasionally give him a start.
I like melky for him better than for cameron if the card would bite
I would too.
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