Nick Johnson, finalizing a $5.75 million, one-year deal, returns to the Yankees to become the team’s designated hitter, a void created by the departure of Hideki Matsui. Prior to the start of the 2004 season, the Bronx Bombers dealt the 31 year-old first baseman to the Expos in exchange for right-handed starter Javier Vazquez, who was recently reacquired by the club in a trade with Atlanta.

ByTom

Nick Johnson, finalizing a $5.75 million, one-year deal, returns to the Yankees to become the team’s designated hitter, a void created by the departure of Hideki Matsui. Prior to the start of the 2004 season, the Bronx Bombers dealt the 31 year-old first baseman to the Expos in exchange for right-handed starter Javier Vazquez, who was recently reacquired by the club in a trade with Atlanta.

Versatile outfielder Coco Crisp (.228, 3, 14), who can play all three spots in the outfield, signs a $5.25 million, one-year contract with the A’s. The 30 year-old flychaser underwent surgery on both shoulders last season, limiting his playing time to only 49 games with the Royals, who declined an $8 million option on the speedy switch-hitter from California.

ByTom

Versatile outfielder Coco Crisp (.228, 3, 14), who can play all three spots in the outfield, signs a $5.25 million, one-year contract with the A’s. The 30 year-old flychaser underwent surgery on both shoulders last season, limiting his playing time to only 49 games with the Royals, who declined an $8 million option on the speedy switch-hitter from California.