The Red Sox reportedly were interested in acquiring first baseman Lance Berkman from the Houston Astros, but it looks like the five-time All-Star will be donning navy pinstripes.
According to the New York Post's Joel Sherman, the Yankees have acquired the 34-year-old first baseman. Berkman waived his no-trade clause, and the deal will be made official Saturday.
ESPN’s Buster Olney reports that the Steinbrenners approved taking on a large salary, such as that of Berkman or Washington Nationals first baseman Adam Dunn.
According to the New York Daily News' Mark Feinsand, the Yankees acquired Berkman without having to give up any big prospects and instead will take on his contract. Upon the move, Berkman would then become the Yankees' new designated hitter.
Berkman signed a six-year, $85 million contract in 2005, and the Astros currently hold a club option for 2011.
Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal reported earlier that the slugger already had signed off on the deal to the Yankees.
Berkman has played his entire 12-year career with the Houston Astros, beginning in 1999. He has struggled at times this season, but he has played better lately, and now has 13 home runs and 49 RBIs to go along with a .245 average.
He was last named an All-Star in 2008.
