Yankees Get Stanley and His Bat Back

Mike Stanley, who spent four seasons with the New York Yankees, was acquired by the club Wednesday in a trade with the Boston Red Sox.

The Yankees, in need of some right-handed pop in their lineup with Cecil Fielder on the disabled list, brought back Stanley, who left the club after the 1995 season as a free agent.

“I felt that adding another quality right-handed bat would give Joe Torre the weapons he needs to make a real, real strong run at a repeat,” Yankee General Manager Bob Watson said. “It also sends a message to the rest of the league, the fans and media.”

Boston also sent minor league infielder Randy Brown for minor league pitcher Tony Armas and a player to be named.

Stanley, 34, was batting .300 with 13 home runs and 53 RBIs in 97 games for the Red Sox. He made 29 starts as Boston’s designated hitter, 23 at first base and nine at catcher.

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Julio Franco agreed to a contract with the Milwaukee Brewers, who expected him to join the team today for the series against the Angels.

Franco, 35, a career .302 hitter, was released by the Cleveland Indians on Aug. 1. Franco was batting .284 with three homers and 25 RBIs with Cleveland.

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Newly inducted Hall of Fame member Nellie Fox will again be honored posthumously Saturday when the Chicago White Sox pay tribute to the second baseman. Fox’s widow, Joanne, and the couple’s two daughters, Tracey and Bonnie, will take part.