07-01-2002, 11:53 PM
Quote:Jays Trade Mondesi to Yanks
For Minor Leaguer Wiggins
The New York Yankees acquired outfielder Raul Mondesi from the Toronto Blue Jays for a minor league pitcher Monday night, hoping the slumping slugger can give them production in a position that's been lagging this season.
The AL East-leading Yankees, already topping the majors in homers and runs scored, have failed to find a replacement for the retired right fielder Paul O'Neill.
Shane Spencer and John Vander Wal have not hit as well as expected while playing in right, and Rondell White has not done as well as anticipated in left.
Mondesi, 31, has hit at least 24 home runs in seven straight years. He has 15 homers and 45 RBIs this season, but is batting only .224.
Mondesi is a strong defensive player, known for an exceptional arm. Last week, he criticized new Blue Jays manager Carlos Tosca after being benched.
"Our outfield has been depleted and when Joe (manager Torre) needs something, I'm going to do everything I can to get it for him," Yankees owner George Steinbrenner said. "And the way our fans are supporting us day after day, I've got to step forward for them, too."
And, as usual, the rich get richer. I am a die hard yankee fan but this trade just reeks. Raul has underachieved for the better part of 5 years. I understand the Yanks wanted another outfielder but there were much cheaper and more productive options available for them to take advantage of.