Yankees and Andruw Jones Agree Deal

Yankees and Andruw Jones Agree to a One-Year Deal

The Yankees and the free agent Andruw Jones agreed to terms on a one-year, $2 million contract Thursday, all but eliminating the possibility of Johnny Damon’s return to the team. Jones, a right-handed hitter once considered the most gifted center fielder in baseball, will serve as a backup outfielder.

The Yankees were searching for a right-handed-hitting outfielder to replace Marcus Thames, who signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers last week. Curtis Granderson and Brett Gardner bat left-handed, as does Damon, making him less desirable to the Yankees.

On Wednesday, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman met with Scott Boras, the agent for Jones, after the news conference to introduce another Boras client the Yankees had signed, relief pitcher Rafael Soriano. A deal was worked out pending a physical. Boras also represents Damon.

Jones, who had 19 home runs and 48 runs batted in in 328 plate appearances for the Chicago White Sox last year, was looking to be a starter but had to settle for being the Yankees’ fourth outfielder. He will turn 34 on April 23.

Jones is a five-time All-Star and has won 10 Gold Gloves during his 15-year career, the first 12 of which were with the Atlanta Braves. Jones has 407 home runs and a .256 batting average. In 2005, he hit 51 home runs with 128 R.B.I. and finished second in the voting for National League most valuable player.

News From: www.nytimes.com