Rich Aurilia’s reputation lacks the luster of Johnny Damon’s, but both players have one thing in common: They want to play for the Yankees this season yet may not get the opportunity.
Aurilia and Damon remain free agents with Yankees spring training set to begin in less than two weeks. While Damon reportedly seeks a contract of $26 million over two years, Aurilia is willing to settle for much less from the pinstripes.
The 37-year-old Aurilia views the Yankees as an opportunity to reunite with former teammate and current Yankees outfielder Randy Winn. Aurilia and Winn played together with the Giants for the past three seasons.
Aurilia has played five positions in 12 major league seasons and the former all-star is willing to accept a minor league deal from the Yankees, who have not ruled it out.
“It’s just been preliminary, but they said there could be some interest down the road,” Aurilia told Extra Baggs. “I’m concentrating more on just making sure my body is ready. I still have the desire to compete and play. I can contribute. I’ve been throwing, swinging the bat and actually feel pretty good.”
A Brooklyn native, Aurilia also would be willing to play for the Mets this season.
