Interwebs are full of rumors of a Yankee reunion with Javier Vazquez.
Word is Vazquez and (lousy) reliever Boone Logan for Melky, minor league lefty Mike Dunn, and maybe A-baller Arodys Vizcaino. Vizcaino and Melky would hurt, but I always like Javy. He got run out of town for having a lousy second half and being part of the Kevin Brown-Johnny Damon Game 7 in the Year We Shall Not Name.
He's had a WHIP of 1.20 over the last 5 seasons and averaged 213 IP. You wanted an ace, Brian Cashman delivered an ace for spare parts and projections.
I don't know the budget situation, but this could reopen the door for Johnny Damon.
Update (10:15):
Says Sam Borden:
For the bargain price of Melky, Mike Dunn and (apparently) the other A-Rod, Arodys Vizcaino, Cashman has:
1. Given the Yankees rotation incredible depth.
2. Likely pushed the Yankees toward a resolution on the Joba to the pen question.
3. Retained financial flexibility for next offseason and beyond (Vazquez’s contract is up after 2010).
4. Relieved a glut of extra outfielders.
Strengthening the bullpen by adding to the rotation is an important part of this move. The more I think about it, the more I like it.
Goodbye, Melky. League average is so often under-appreciated.
Update (11:16):
Says Joel Sherman:
The Yankees project Vazquez as a Type-A free agent next winter, so they can offer arbitration and - if it's rejected - get 2 high picks to begin replenishing the system.