Yanks Get Swisher from White Sox, Deal Betemit

The Yankees have acquired first baseman Nick Swisher and Class AA right-hander Kanekoa Texeira from the White Sox. Swisher, a switch-hitter, likely will play first base for the Yankees, replacing Jason Giambi, who is a free agent. The White Sox will receive infielder Wilson Betemit and minor leaguers Jeff Marquez and Jhonny Nunez. The Yankees view Swisher as a flexible, affordable option as they try to improve upon their third-place finish in the AL East last season, which marked the first time they missed the postseason since 1993. Swisher most likely will play first base, replacing Giambi, but he also provides depth in left and center field. The Yankees are still looking for a center fielder, but as they are presently constituted, Xavier Nady could play left and Johnny Damon center. Hideki Matsui, coming off knee surgery, could figure in left, enabling Nady to move to right, or serve as a designated hitter. Swisher, who turns 28 on Nov. 25, is signed for $5.3 million next season, ... (link)