The New York Yankees have designated veteran outfielder Alfonso Soriano for assignment. According to NewsDay , the news came as a surprise to teammate Mark Teixeira "I just know how good Sori can be. He's a streaky hitter but just hadn't been on a hot streak yet, so it's a little surprising.''
Soriano has always been a streaky hitter, but as he is batting a career-low .244, the Yankees just could not wait him to come around.
Soriano, who began his Major League career as a skinny second basemen with the Yankees back in 1999, said he has no ill feelings towards the Yankees for the decision. Soriano has made seven All-Star teams and won two World Series during his 16 year career, but was not able to earn a regular starting position in the Yankee’s outfield this season.
Soriano was always a fan favorite in the Bronx, and was welcomed back with open arms last season when the Yankees took him of the Chicago Cubs hands. He was traded from the Yankees back in 2004 in part of the deal that brought Alex Rodriguez to New York.
The loss of Soriano will be felt more in the Yankees clubhouse than out on the field; manager Joe Girardi said “It’s been kind of a tough day,” according to The Daily News.