Lance Berkman has battled injuries since last season, that have kept his playing time down. He is only hitting .249 with 13 homers this season, but lately has picked up his game. The Yankees have been trying to fill their designated hitter position in a potent lineup ever since Nick Johnson went down with an injury earlier this season. Berkman is a 5-time National League All Star, who has hit over 40 home runs two times in his career. He has played all 12 seasons for the Houston Astros.
Also on Friday, the Yankees acquired outfielder Austin Kearns from the Indians for future considerations. He is currently hitting .272 with 8 homers this season. He is expected to platoon with Brett Gardner in left field. The MLB trade deadline is at 4PM on Saturday.
