New York Yankees Sign Former Division Rival Outfielder

The New York Yankees have signed Franchy Cordero, a 28-year-old outfielder, to a one-year major-league contract worth $1 million with a split deal that pays him $180,000 in the minors.

Cordero had an impressive spring training with the Baltimore Orioles, batting .413 with six extra-base hits in 46 at-bats. Despite his performance, the Baltimore Orioles released him, allowing the Yankees to acquire him.

Outfielder Franchy Cordero and the New York Yankees are in agreement on a major league contract, sources tell ESPN. It’s a split deal that will pay $1 million in the big leagues and $180,000 in the minors. Barring another move, Cordero would be on the Yankees’ Opening Day roster.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) March 29, 2023

Cordero has played for several MLB teams in his six-year career, including the San Diego Padres, Kansas Royals, and the Boston Red Sox, but has struggled with a career batting average of .221 due to his lack of selectivity and high strikeout rate.

However, he has some serious power and underrated speed, which he's displayed at times, making him an intriguing asset to teams in need of outfield depth. He just struggles to make contact.

The Yankees have a crowded outfield, with Aaron Judge in center field, Giancarlo Stanton in right, and Aaron Hicks in left.

Well, it seems I've been wanting Franchy Cordero since November, for some reason. https://t.co/w4FV2rbCco
— Ryan Garcia (In the Lab🧪) (@RyanGarciaESM) March 29, 2023

Cordero is expected to serve as bench depth for the team, potentially displacing outfielder Estevan Florial, who has no remaining options, and may be placed on waivers. Cordero's role with the team will likely involve providing relief for starters across all three outfield positions at the beginning of the 2022 season.

It remains to be seen whether Cordero will thrive in a limited role with the Yankees. However, his impressive spring training performance has earned him a spot on the team, and the Yankees may benefit from his potential power off the bench.

It also helps that he's a left-handed bat, as Yankee Stadium is quite favorable to left-handed hitters. Photo Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports