Yankees Claim Todd from Indians, DFA Russo

As per Chad Jennings:

Here’s the announcement from the Yankees.

Earlier today, the Yankees claimed RHP Jess Todd off waivers from Cleveland. Todd previously spent 2011 with Triple-A Columbus, posting an 11.00 ERA in eight games without recording a decision (9.0IP, 18H, 11ER, 6BB, 6K, 2HR). He split 2010 between Cleveland (0-0, 7.50 ERA, 5G, 6.0IP, 9H, 5ER, 3BB, 9K) and Columbus (4-2, 3.31 ERA, 44G, 4SV, 49.0IP, 46H, 20R, 18ER, 18BB, 53K, 6HR). Todd was originally drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the second round of the 2007 First Year Player Draft.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Yankees designated INF Kevin Russo for assignment.

Todd's numbers leave a bit to be desired, but there is a bit to be excited about here - especially when one considers that he's only 25. The small-ish righty features a 91 to 95 MPH fastball and a mid-80s slider that serves as a true swing-and-miss pitch - particularly against right-handed hitters. His strikeout, walk, and groundball numbers have been above-average throughout his minor league career, as well. He's struggled a bit with the longball recently, and his lack of a change-up may hinder his ability to be effective against lefties ... but there could be a fair bit of value here, for the low price of a waiver claim.