Yankee trade pending: Melky Cabrera for Mike Cameron

December 11, 10:03 AMNew York Yankees ExaminerPete Sabatini

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Word is spreading that the Yankees are working on a deal with the Brewers that would send Melky Cabrera to Milwaukee in exchange for veteran centerfielder Mike Cameron.

The original report came from the New York Daily News here.

Cameron, a former Met, carries one year and $10M on his contract.  In 2008 the centerfielder recorded slightly below career average numbers: .243 BA, 69 Runs, 70 RBI, 25HR, 17SB, .331 OBP in 120 games. 

Mike Cameron turns 36 next month and brings some veteran experience to hold down centerfield with strong fielding and some occasional pop until Austin Jackson is ready to take over.

Melky Cabrera on the other hand had a very disappointing 2008 season after a moderately disappointing 2007 and 2006.  In 2008 the youngster managed a paltry .249 BA, 42 Runs, 37 RBI, 8HR, and .301 OBP in 129 games played.

Though Cabrera’s only 24, the Yankees have a wealth of young outfield talent in the minors, but none that is major league ready.  Judging from this deal, if it is made, Melky is not the most promising of the bunch.

That is encouraging for the future of the Yankee outfield and gives this deal the flavor of a short-term measure to bide time for those younger players to mature.

Read here for my first mention of the Yankees' interest in Cameron.