Jeff Keppinger on Yanks Radar

From Ken Rosenthal:

The Yankees, searching for bench help, have spoken with the Astros about infielder Jeff Keppinger, according to major-league sources.

A trade does not appear close, but the teams have engaged in recent discussions, one source said.

The Astros increased the possibility of trading Keppinger on Friday, reaching agreement with free agent Bill Hall on a one-year contract to play second base.

The Yankees had shown interest in Hall, but Keppinger - who stands to receive a raise from $1.15 million in his second year of arbitration - could fill a similar role.

In 137 games for the Astros last year, Keppinger hit .288/.351/.393 with 6 HR and 59 RBI. Pretty solid numbers for someone who would be a bench player here. He's played every position besides catcher and center throughout his career, but spent most of last year at second base (and 12 games at short). As long as the 'Stros aren't trying to rob us I'm all for it.