Yankees acquire INF Chris Nelson

The New York Yankees tonight announced they have acquired infielder Chris Nelson from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for cash considerations or a player to be named later.

Nelson, 27, appeared in 21 games with the Colorado Rockies this season before being designated for assignment on April 28, batting .242 (16-for-66) with one double, two triples and four RBI. He made 19 starts, all at third base, committing three errors in 48 total chances. He is a career .279 (172-for-616) hitter with 33 doubles, six triples, 13 home runs and 73 RBI in 212 games over parts of four seasons with the Rockies (2010-13). Selected by Colorado in the first round (ninth overall) of the 2004 First-Year Player Draft, the utility infielder has made appearances at third base, second base, and shortstop, combining for a .947 career fielding percentage.

He spent his first full season in the Majors in 2012, batting .301 (104-for-345) with 21 doubles, three triples, nine home runs and 53 RBI in 111 games with the Rockies. His .344 (62-for-180) batting average following the All-Star break led all National League third basemen.

In a corresponding move to make room on the 40-man roster, C Francisco Cervelli was transferred to the 60-day disabled list.