Yankees Claim Russ Canzler Off Waivers The Yankees' search for a right-handed-hitting outfielder/designated hitter continues to take on a distinct bargain-bin feel. Just after Christmas they signed Matt Diaz, the former Atlanta Brave, and on Friday they claimed Russ Canzler off waivers from the Cleveland Indians. Canzler is a right-handed hitter with some thump in his bat who can play the outfield and first base, much like the former Yankee Nick Swisher, whom the Indians recently signed to a four-year, $56 million deal. With that signing, the Indians didn't have as much need for a player like Canzler, so the Yankees swooped in. For the moment, this is what the new, budget-conscious Yankees have come to: losing a marquee free agent to a smaller-market team, then taking that team's castoff in return. The 26-year-old Canzler will likely join Diaz in the competition for the fourth outfield spot on the Yankees' major league roster and a role as a part-time designated hitter. Justin Upton, the talented right-handed-hitting outfielder for Arizona, may be available in a trade, but it would be hard for the Yankees to come up with a package that would intrigue the Diamondbacks. The Yankees would also ind it difficult to come up with a trade offer that would convince the Minnesota Twins to surrender Josh Willingham, a right-handed, power-hitting outfielder. Another outfielder who would fit the Yankee's needs is Giancarlo Stanton, who plays for the budget-cutting Miami Marlins. But the Marlins have told other teams they are not trading Stanton, according to a baseball executive with knowledge of where they stand. Canzler was called up by Cleveland last September and hit .269, with 3 home runs and 11 runs batted in, in 26 games. He played in 130 games last season for Class AAA Columbus and hit 22 home runs and 36 doubles while batting .265 and knocking in 79 runs. The 36 doubles led the International League. Canzler, who has the reputation of being a hard-nosed player, was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 30th round in 2004. He has minor league options left, which means the Yankees could send him back to Class AAA at the start of the season and recall him if he's needed.