Johnny Mize

On August 22, 1949, the Yankees bought aging NL slugger Johnny Mize from the New York Giants for $40,000. They proceeded to win 5 straight championships. Of course, Mize was only a big part of the `50 and `51 teams as `52 and `53 were all decline. Still, it was a smart move by a savvy GM that paid off. Back in the `90's, the Yanks added a prematurely aging Darryl Strawberry, and started winning championships again. Now, I don't see causation in either of these historic deals, but I do see the kind of moves the Yanks have and should make when they're closing in on titles. Now, not all of these moves work, back in the `70's they signed Jimmy Wynn hoping he could help, but he was too far over the hill. In the early `40's, the Yanks tried adding an aging, and drunken Paul Waner but he, too was too far gone. Still, the teams were in championship for when both moves were made.


So, why do I bring this up? Well, right now it looks like Adam Dunn, who fits the Yankee model of power and patience is available on the cheap and as a DH and occasional OF/1B, he could really help the Yanks win some titles.