Yankees, Park agree to a one year deal

The New York Yankees agreed to a one year deal with former Philadelphia Phillie Chan Ho Park earlier today. An official Announcement can not be made by general manager Brian Cashman, until Park can arrive in the U.S and pass his physical, to officially join Yankees camp in Tampa. He was 3-3 with a 4.43 ERA in 45 games, including seven starts, for the Phillies last season, pitching in the World Series against the Yankees. The contract is reported to be for $1.2 million, with incentives that earn Park an extra $300,000. It is going to be interesting to see, whether or not Park competes for the 5th spot in the rotation or joins the bullpen. Besides Joba and Phil Hughes, Sergio Mitre, Chad Gaudin, and newly signed Dustin Mosely are also competing for the job. Yankees GM Brian Cashmen had to persuade the front office to expand the payroll to sign Park. Now with the signing it is possible either Sergio Mitre or Chad Gaudin could be traded to make room for Park. Park was a secret weapon in the bullpen for Charlie Manuel in the postseason last year, shutting down his opponents. There is no doubt Park will be as essential to Joe Girardi in any role he is given. It is to soon to see how the Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes situation plays out, which will be key in the decision of what Park's role is come April 4. Overall I like the signing and feel it was another good move made by GM Brian Cashman.