Two things that the New York Yankees need are right-handed bats and help in the outfield. Given their tight budget — the one they claim doesn't exist — getting one player who solves both issues would be a plus. Having him cost next to nothing is ideal.
One player the club has eyed to fill these roles has been former Cincinnati Reds outfielder Austin Hays. Hays mashes lefties and would be an inexpensive free-agent signing, but believe it or not, an even cheaper target existed. Until now.
At the end of December, the Detroit Tigers designated 25-year-old right-handed-hitting outfielder Justyn-Henry Malloy for assignment.