Jay Bruce is finally a Yankee.
Left-swinging Bruce signed a minor league deal with the Yankees, a source confirmed Saturday, and could put a much-needed left-handed bat on the lineup if he’s on the roster.
But Bruce, who turns 34 in April, has been far less productive in recent seasons than earlier in his career.
The three-time All-Star hit six home runs and had a .721 OPS in 103 at bats with the Phillies, and fought quad injuries in the shortened 2020 season. He was solid in 2019, which he split between Philadelphia and Seattle.
With Bruce not having a DH in the National League this season, it made sense for Bruce to sign with an AL team and take advantage of the short porch at Yankee Stadium.
With Brett Gardner still a free agent, the Yankees have just added Aaron Hicks and Greg Allen and lefthanded hitters Mike Tauchman, Mike Ford, Estevan Florial and Tyler Wade on the 40-man roster to balance the lineup.
The Yankees, a source added, have still not ruled out bringing Gardner back, as he would have a different role from Bruce.
The Yankees’ pursuit of Bruce dates back to at least 2017, when they were sure they’d landed him in a trade with the Mets ahead of that year’s non-disbandment deadline, only to get him a deal. see it close with Cleveland.
Bruce earns $ 1.35 million, plus bonuses, when he’s in the Major League-squad. And when he’s healthy, Bruce can also play first base, as well as right and left.