Nick Swisher has officially agreed to terms with the Cleveland Indians on a four year, $56 million contract with a vesting option for a fifth year at $14 million that can potentially make the deal worth up to $70 million. The right fielder was a fan favorite during his tenure with the Yankees, always interacting with fans in right field and doing his famous "Swisher Salute"during every roll call. However, the Yankees are trying to get under the luxury tax threshold for the 2014 season and by paying a player like Swisher $14 million per season, they wouldn't have been in a great position to do so.
Swisher feasted on bad pitching. He had great regular seasons with the Yankees, averaging 26 home runs and 87 RBI over his Yankee career. However, he was historically bad in the postseason. Whether it was because of the better pitching, or the bright lights, Swisher was horrendous in October with the Yankees. At one point, Swisher was 0 for his last 34 with RISP. That is not a formula that will amount to success when it matters most.
With Swisher gone, the Yankees will now receive the Indians supplemental first round pick in compensation for Swisher. If the Yankees are going to produce players out of their system, this is a good first step for them. They can get a player with ample potential who can play a key role for them in 3-4 years. With players like Mason Williams, Gary Sanchez, Dante Bichette Jr, and Ty Hensley in the lower level of the minor leagues, the Yankees can possibly build themselves a new core in the coming years.
I wish Swisher the best but the way he went out, by blaming the fans for his troubles, will never be fully forgiven.
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