Yankees Expect to Keep Bobby Abreu

The future of Alex Rodriguez, Jorge Posada and Andy Pettitte in New York remains uncertain, but at least one decision appears to be made: the New York Post reports that the Yankees are almost certain they will exercise their $16 million option to keep Bobby Abreu.

I don't think this was an automatic decision: Abreu rebounded from a slow start to hit .305/.390/.528 in the second half, but he still finished the year hitting just .283 with a .369 OBP and .445 SLG. That's aren't horrible numbers, but they're also not $16 million numbers, and it's the worst line he's put up over a full season in his entire career. Abreu might see his playing time cut, however, as the team is also interested in giving Shelly Duncan more playing time:

[Team] officials are also stressing Shelly Duncan needs to be given substantial plate appearances next year as a caddy to Abreu and in other roles. The organization is intrigued by Duncan's major league cameo, especially because there is a dearth of right-handed power in the game. Team officials like Duncan's energy and the chance he could provide a helpful element at near minimum wage.

Don't make the mistake of thinking that Duncan is some kind of up-and-coming prospect, though: he's already 28 years old and hit just .220 (albeit in just 41 at-bats) against right-handed pitchers last season. Yes, he has some power, by developing cheap talent isn't all that useful if it's no better than the expensive talent being forced to the bench.