MLB rumors: New York Yankees showing interest in Jhonny Peralta
By Bryan Rose
The New York Yankees have re-signed both Derek Jeter and Brendan Ryan to contracts in recent days, though, it’s clear the Bronx Bombers are still trying to fix their hole at shortstop.
It’s clear the Yankees aren’t expecting Jeter to remain healthy for a full season and will want to give him routine days of rest to keep him as fresh as possible. And while Ryan can provide solid defense in his starts or during late inning situations, his offense is virtually non-existent. That has lead to the Yankees exploring other alternatives, including rumors of potentially having interest in Stephen Drew who declined a $14.1 million dollar qualifying offer from the Boston Red Sox.
To sign Drew, the Yankees would need to forfeit a draft pick, something they may not want to do and now according to Jon Morosi, they’re showing interest in former Detroit Tigers shortstop Jhonny Peralta:
"Yankees expressing interest in free agent Jhonny Peralta, sources tell @Ken_Rosenthal and me."
The move seems to make a bit more sense than an addition of Drew as Peralta, while not nearly the same defender comes with a much improved bat. Peralta can also play third base or a corner outfield position in addition to shortstop, which would give the Yankees much more lineup versatility.