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The Yankees -- who lost 1st base prospect Greg Bird before spring training began -- finally filled that "insurance policy" role by bringing back an old friend. Fan favorite Nick Swisher, cut late last month by the Braves, inked a minor league contract with the Yanks Wednesday. He'll report to Scranton today and fill in at DH, 1st base and the outfield. It's not the easiest position to handle. Swisher, now 35, spent four productive years with the Yankees -- including the 2009 World Champs. But they chose not to hold onto him as a free agent. Nick left for Cleveland, and was traded to Atlanta last summer.
Slowed by bad knees, the rebuilding Braves didn't think he was a good match for their club. He returns to the Yankee organization "just in case" something happens to Mark Teixeira, Carlos Beltran or Alex Rodriguez. A veteran who can step in should one of the veteran regulars be sidelined for an extended period.
These images were taken during batting practice before a Yankees game in July 2012.

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