Today the Yankees signed ex-Astro, Morgan Ensberg, to a minor league deal as another possible contender for the first base position. With Giambi, Betemit, Duncan, and now Ensberg all fighting for the position, I think we are bound to find a consistent first baseman for October. I am glad that Cashman made this deal because it really won’t hurt us. As of right now Ensberg has been signed to a minor league deal, so he isn’t even taking up a spot on the 40 man roster.
Looking at Ensberg’s tenure with the Astros, he certainly has the potential to be good and with a one year deal worth $1.75 to $2.25 million (for performance bonuses) we aren’t taking much of a hit. Also, that $1.75 million isn’t even guaranteed unless he is put on the 40 man roster. So, if Duncan or whoever plays amazingly and we have no need for Ensberg, it will cost us less than $1.75 million (I am not sure what the exact figure would be, but it certainly wouldn’t be more than chump change for the Yanks).
Another plus side on Ensberg is that he is a righty, which could certainly come in handy in our predominately left-handed lineup. Bottom line is: the Yanks have added another legitimate option for first base, in a move that has the potential of being a good outcome, but doesn’t hold the risk of hurting us.