While on vacation Joe, Mike G, John B and I discussed potential moves next year by the Yankees involving outfielders Damon and Matsui.  The consensus was that the Yankees would not sign either player citing age or defensive liabilities (in Matsui’s case total lack of defense since he has not played the field all year, which is incredible).

I feel that A-Rod and Matsui are having their best years as a Yankee.  Their shear stats do not bear this out, but looking at the team as we do it is obvious to me that A-Rod is more relaxed (did anyone say Kate Hudson), is hitting in the clutch (I know that he must do so in the playoffs for all of this to be meaningful) and is playing excellent defense at third base.  And all of this in an injury-shortened season coming back from major hip surgery.  Now for Matsui.  As a DH and a pinch hitter he has excelled this year. 

My feeling is that the Yankees may consider resigning Matsui for two years at say $6M per year.  Moreover, because of the Japanese connection he has off-the-field value to the Yankees.  Damon is having a great year at the plate, but he must play the outfield and he has become a defensive liability.