Overbay In, J-Rivera Out

The good ol' days. Overbay objects to A-Rod''s "HA"

I was all for the Yankees releasing Juan Rivera (reported a short while ago by Fox's Ken Rosenthal), who has lost any of the pop he had in his bat and had little experience at first base. I just didn't expect someone older than Rivera to take his place on the roster.

The 34-year old became expendable when the Yankees brought in 36-year old first baseman Lyle Overbay yesterday. Overbay had been released early Wednesday and was picked up immediately by the Yankees. Overbay played in last night's exhibition game with Baltimore as well as today's game with Pittsburgh.

Neither player hits much any more, but Overbay has a big advantage defensively and will help immeasurably with his glove. However, if the Yankees lose Mark Teixeira for the season, someone else with more pop needs to occupy first base on a  regular basis.

In the meantime it appears Overbay will hold down the fort.