Yanks add Allen to OF depth in swap with SD
The Yankees moved to bolster their outfield depth on Wednesday, acquiring switch-hitter Greg Allen from the Padres in exchange for left-handed pitcher James Reeves.
Allen, 27, was designated for assignment by San Diego last week. He was acquired from the Indians last summer in the deal that shipped right-hander Mike Clevinger to the west coast.
Reputed as a stellar defender, Allen made his big league debut in 2017. He has compiled a career slash line of .239/.298/.343 with eight home runs and 57 RBIs in 221 games with Cleveland and San Diego.
The Yankees’ outfield projects to feature Clint Frazier in left field, Aaron Hicks in center field and Aaron Judge in right field, with Giancarlo Stanton expected to serve as a full-time designated hitter.
Allen was added to the 40-man roster and could compete with Estevan Florial and Mike Tauchman for playing time in Spring Training.
The Yankees remain open to the possibility of Brett Gardner’s return as well, though the club’s main focus in free agency is its ongoing pursuit of infielder DJ LeMahieu, which general manager Brian Cashman recently said has been “driving the bus.”