The New York Yankees aren’t interested in signing Barry Bonds. But they are on the verge of adding another hitter — Richie Sexson.
Sexson, released by the Mariners on July 10, is closing in on a deal with the Yankees, major-league sources say. He will play first base against left-handed pitching, likely reducing the playing time of Wilson Betemit, a switch-hitter.
When Sexson is at first, the Yankees could use either Jason Giambi, a left-handed hitter, or Jorge Posada, a switch-hitter, as their DH.
Sexson, 33, batted .218-.315-.381 (BA-OBP-SLG) in 292 plate appearances with the Mariners, hitting 11 homers and driving in 30 runs. He was considered a major disappointment after signing a four-year, $50 million contract prior to the 2005 season.
The Mariners released him after he spent time during a game in the bullpen with the team’s relievers instead of sitting on the bench.