Yankees pick up 1B/DH Morales from A's

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Wednesday, May 15, 2019

The New York Yankees acquired first baseman/designated hitter Kendrys Morales and cash considerations from theOakland Athleticson Tuesday in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.

Morales had hit at least 20 home runs in each of the previous four seasons, and he has 212 homers in his 13-year career.

The A's had designated Morales for assignment on Monday. The 35-year-old was hitting just .204 with one home run and seven RBIs in 108 at-bats. He had made 23 starts at first base this season.

In announcing the DFA, A's manager Bob Melvin said, "Unfortunately, we had to let him go. I'll tell you what, this guy, maybe he didn't put up big numbers, but this is a terrific teammate."

The A's acquired Morales from the Toronto Blue Jays before the season.

With first baseman Matt Olson returning last week after missing 34 games with a hand injury and Morales struggling at the plate, Morales' spot on the roster had been in question.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Yankees transferred right-handed pitcher Jonathan Loaisiga to the 60-day injured list.