Yankees Sign Ben Francisco To A Minor League Deal

The Yankees have signed right handed outfielder Ben Francisco to a minor league deal today with an invite to spring training. Ben opted out of his deal with the Cleveland Indians this morning because he did not feel like he had a legitimate shot at making the team after the Indians signed Nick Swisher and Michael Bourn. Ben signed a deal the same day this afternoon with the Yankees looking to win a spot as the 4th outfielder. Ben will be competing with Juan Rivera and Matt Diaz for the spot and will not waste any time in doing so, presumably, because the Yankees face left handed pitcher Cliff Lee tomorrow. Ben has played center field in the minor leagues but is considered to be a corner outfielder in the majors at this point in his career. Ben was having a stellar spring with Cleveland batting .400 with six doubles, five walks, and only four strike outs in 20 at bats. Ben is expected to be with the Yankees in camp as early as tomorrow and should be in a game no later than Wednesday.