Soldiering On

The recent acquisition of outfielder Vernon Wells has left many in the Yankee universe baffled.  It seems like an over reaction to losing Granderson, and leaves little wiggle room for the team.  Getting Vernon Wells means removing another prospect from the 40 man roster, it means spending $13 million, it means  giving Wells a starting spot over one of various cheaper options, not to mention some of our own minor leaguers on whom the 2014 budget reduction goal is wholly reliant upon.  It was reported that the Wells deal is getting structured in a way to actually give the Yankees a $2 million credit towards the 2014 payroll, which is smart, but you know what else gives the Yankees more payroll flexibility in 2014?  Giving our prospects a shot.  If the Yankees hope to have one of our minor leaguers step into a starting role in 2014, they have to give them some big league time now.  Especially if they're position players.  Equally baffling is that the Yankees DFA'd a legitimate infield prospect in David Adams to make space on the 40-man roster.  So the Yankees look intent on making bold moves that make no sense.  Girardi said "We think [Wells is] a much better player than he’s shown the last two years.”  I'm sure that's what the Angels thought when they traded for him, and I'm sure it's what the Blue Jays thought when they signed him to a 7 year $126 million extension.  My issue is that even if he performs well, he's still taking a position that we could be using to develop one of our prospects.  It's like the Yankees have a split personality at this point.  They want to focus on player development so they can get some prospects on the roster, but then they fill every vacancy with a major league veteran. ?????