While the Yankees met with Shea Hillenbrand's agent yesterday, another option at first base surfaced. And while Richie Sexson is an expensive alternative, it could be one for the Yankees.
The Mariners have let teams know they are looking to move Sexson and third baseman Adrian Beltre in order to reduce payroll. It's believed the Mariners are clearing money in order to go after free agent Barry Zito.
Casey Close, Sexson's agent, had a meeting last night with Mariners brass to gauge its desire to move the right-handed slugger who batted .264 with 34 homes and 107 RBIs last season. He has two years and $28 million left on a four-year, $50 million contract he signed prior to the 2005 season.
While the Yankees aren't going to give up Chien-Ming Wang or Phil Hughes for Sexson, a package headed by Melky Cabrera could entice the Mariners if they are willing to eat some of Sexson's money. If they don't pay part of the money, they can't expect much back.
So what do you guys think? Think Sexson can hang in New York? Should the Yanks trade away Melky Cabrera to get him? DJ, if you're still out there, thoughts?
