Looking at the list of nontendered players across the league, the Yankees have a number of chances to go bargain shopping.
Akinori Otsuka: Otsuka should immediately become Brian Cashman’s top priority. The rebuilding Rangers did not feel like paying the 35 year old coming off an elbow injury. Otsuka suffered no structural damage and did not need major surgery. He is a proven setup man in the American League with a career 2.44 ERA. Right now Mariano Rivera is the only reliable thing in the bullpen. The addition of Otsuka would help relieve some concerns over the state of the relief corps. He is infinitely better than anything this team currently has as a bridge to Mariano Rivera (excluding the possibility of moving Joba Chamberlain back to the bullpen).
Mark Prior: Considering Prior’s extensive injury history, a lot of people would view him as an unappealing target. People need to remember that he is only 27 years old. The Cubs mistreated a shoulder ailment for years. Dr. James Andrews finally cleaned up his shoulder earlier this season. He was once an elite pitcher and has a 3.51 career ERA. The Yankees would not have to depend on him to be part of the rotation. He could start out in the minors and work back at his own pace. His fastball will not have the same velocity it once did, but he still could salvage it as an above average pitch to go with a terrific curveball and impeccable control. Guys with this kind of potential do not hit the open market on a discount often. All signing Prior would cost this team is money. He is worth a flier.
Morgan Ensberg: After a great 2005, Ensberg’s career fell off a cliff. Even when he posted subpar 2006 and 2007 numbers, he killed lefty pitching. He would not be a bad guy to have as a bench player or put into the mix as part of a first base platoon.
Kevin Mench: Mench is another great hitter against lefties. He would be a good reserve outfielder.
Dallas McPherson: The 27 year old was once a top prospect for the Angels. Injuries hampered his career, but a change of scenery might help him harness that untapped potential.
Kiko Calero and Juan Rincon: The Yankees should target these guys for minor league deals. Both are former terrific middle relievers who got lit up in 2007. Either could come back strong. If they want guaranteed roster spots, it would be best to let them go elsewhere. This team is already guaranteeing one shaky veteran commodity, LaTroy Hawkins a roster spot. Giving either of these guys similar treatment could end up blocking a younger player performing. It is best to keep flexibility in the bullpen unless adding something terrific like Otsuka.
