Where have you gone, Bobby Abreu?

The New York Yankees made the biggest non-waiver deadline trade thus far, acquiring Bobby Abreu and Cory Lidle from the Philadelphia Phillies for four minor leaguers. How does this deal improve the Yankees?

Abreu has been and still is an on-base machine; however, his power has suffered a significant decline since last year's Home Run Derby, which he won in record setting fashion. Because of his on-base skills, Abreu would probably be best as number two or three hitter in a lineup. The Yankees already have those spots taken by Derek Jeter and Jason Giambi. With the leadoff spot, another possibility, taken by Johnny Damon, Abreu will likely start off hitting fifth in the lineup behind Alex Rodriguez. His addition makes the lineup more potent on paper, but unless he is able to take advantage the short right field porch, his addition may only have a subtle impact. Pitchers will wear out quicker now that the most patient hitter in baseball (4.47 pitches seen per plate appearance) has joined an already patient team, but it will be up to the lower half of the lineup to drive him home when he reaches. If Jorge Posada, Melky Cabrera and company are not up to the task, it will be hard to see the benefits of the trade.

That being said, the addition of Lidle, should also help. Lidle is having solid but not spectacular season, but is an improvement over both Jaret Wright and Sidney Ponson. The Yankees obvioulsy are hoping for a significant contribution from Abreu, but Lidle could end up being just as important, despite not being as highly touted.