New York Yankees Sign Chase Headley to a Four-Year Deal

The New York Yankees have reportedly signed third baseman, Chase Headley to a four-year contract worth $52 million, several sources reported. The deal will be finalized after a physical.

With Headley staying in the Bronx, speculations regarding Alex Rodriguez, who will make his return after a one-year suspension, have arisen. According to general manager, Brian Cashman, if Rodriguez wants to play, he will have to earn his spot, regardless of what that spot will be.

"If I signed a Chase Headley, he would be the starting third baseman," Cashman said roughly a month ago according to ESPN.com. "[Rodriguez] is going to compete for at-bats and for a position. The position would be third, and obviously DH, and that's it. Maybe some time at first base. He may be eventually the everyday third baseman, he may be the everyday DH; I just don't know."

He added, "That has nothing to do with devaluing Alex or disrespecting Alex or anything of that nature. It's just a fair assessment of the unknown. You can't quantify the unknown right now until you get him out there on a consistent basis to see if he can actually remain on the field, stay healthy, be productive and be that middle-of-the-lineup threat and force that we've all come to see for years gone by."

With Headley, who will turn 31 next year, at third, the Yankees will most likely move Martin Prado to second. Headley will also add more flexibility to the lineup with his experience at first base.

Headley batted .243 with 13 homeruns, 20 doubles and 49 RBI in 135 games last season with the San Diego Padres and the New York Yankees. He made $10.525 million that year.

In eight seasons with the majors, Headley has a 265 batting average with 93 homeruns, 194 doubles and 418 RBI. He was a NL Gold Glove winner in 2012.

In other trade news, the Yankees are not expecting to sign free agent starter Max Scherzer, who will most likely cost too much.