Bubba

Trammell

The Yankees are prepared to fight any action the Association takes, especially since they say Trammell has refused on numerous occasions to come to New York for a medical evaluation at their request.

Trammell’s absence will give the Padres more time to evaluate Xavier Nady and Brian Buchanan, both of whom are candidates to play left field while Phil Nevin is out.

Trammell has never played first base in the majors, and even though he’d like to try, manager Jim Tracy declined the offer. Trammell probably won’t be worth much more than a back or two as the Dodgers’ fourth outfielder.

The Devil Rays were also showing interest in Trammell, who had his contract terminated by the Yankees. The Dodgers would use him as a reserve and a pinch-hitter.

Trammell also left the Yankees last June for personal reasons that were described as depression. His agent on the matter: “He needed some time away from the game to reevaluate some other opportunities and the Rays were gracious enough to grant it.”

The Yankees aren’t seeing many left-handers right now, so they can afford to have Trammell miss some time.

Trammell, who left the Yankees without explanation on June 29, is on the restricted list and not drawing his $2.5 million salary. The Players Association is seeking to recover Trammell’s salary for the season, claiming he was unable to play because of depression and should be on the disabled list. Trammell is due $4.75 million from the Yankees next year, but that’s more money he might not see.

Trammell still had some work to do to guarantee himself a spot on the Los Angeles bench. This will help.

The Dodgers still could have kept Trammell, but the acqusitions of Jason Grabowski and Jayson Werth would have left him with very little playing time. Because he only need be paid the minimum -- he’s already guaranteed $1.85 million this year -- Trammell shouldn’t have difficulty finding work. His departure leaves two open spots for Jose Hernandez, Olmedo Saenz, Jason Romano and Joe Thurston on the roster. Hernandez should be in and Thurston out, so it will really come down to Saenz vs. Romano.

By making the deal, the Yankees pick up an extra $1.5 million in salary over the next two years. Still, with Phillips included, it’s a very good trade for them. Trammell doesn’t have White’s offensive upside, but he might be a more useful pinch-hitter. He’ll get the occasional start at DH against lefties and should be worth $2-$3 in AL-only leagues.