The New York Yankees crippled their rivals, the Boston Red Sox, late Tuesday when the club agreed to terms with center fielder Johnny Damon. The four-year deal agreed upon is worth a reported $52 million. Damon, who spent the last four seasons with the Red Sox, batted .316 along with 10 home runs and 75 RBIs in 148 games last season. Damon was originally drafted by the Kansas City Royals; he also spent one season with the Oakland Athletics. The 32-year-old also recorded 197 hits, scored 117 runs and stole 18 bases during an all-star season with Boston in 2005. Breaking Down The Deal Johnny Damon is a great signing for the Yankees; a true case of addition by subtraction. Not only does New York add a great hitting, speedy center fielder to the top of their order, they steal the catalyst of the Red Sox lineup. While Damon does not have the greatest arm, it is certainly an upgrade over Bernie Williams and even Bubba Crosby. This move also allows Derek Jeter to drop back to the # 2 spot in the batting order. I still don?t think the Yankees will win the World Series with their aging and injury-prone pitching staff. But with a lineup featuring Damon, Jeter, Rodriguez, Sheffield and Matsui, it is hard to pick against them. My Grade: A Do you have a question, concern, or comment? ? Feel free to email me at [email protected]