The Yankees denied a published report they have let teams know right fielder Nick Swisher is available.
According to a club official, the switch-hitting Swisher, who played a big part in the Yankees winning the AL East and struggled in the postseason, isn’t being shopped.
With Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui, who combined for 52 homers this past season, free agents and their Yankee futures uncertain, it would seem unlikely the Yankees would entertain offers for Swisher before the team works through the free-agent process.
If Damon doesn’t return, the Yankees will need a left-fielder. If Matsui comes back, he won’t be considered an outfielder.
And Swisher’s money isn’t offensive. Twenty-nine next week, he will earn $6.75 million this coming season, $9 million in 2011. There is a $10.25 million club option for 2012 or a $1 million buyout.
That’s $16.75 million guaranteed for two more seasons and if Swisher comes close to the 29 homers, 82 RBIs and .371 on-base percentage he produced this season, he isn’t too expensive.
Plus, Swisher’s out-sized personality is a big hit with manager Joe Girardi and GM Brian Cashman.
Swisher, who was benched in Game 2 of the World Series in favor of Jerry Hairston Jr., struggled in the postseason, hitting .128 (6-for-47) and posted a .255 on-base percentage. He had more than twice as many strikeouts (15) than hits (6).