Yankees: McCann a 'Potential Hall of Famer'

Brian McCann showed off his No. 34 New York Yankees jersey for the first time on Thursday (Dec. 5). And the Duluth High grad sounded happy to be with the tradition-rich franchise.

Speaking to the New York media in his formal introduction as a new Yankee, McCann said on mlb.com, "What it means to be a part of this organization -- it means a lot, especially being a catcher, and all the tradition that's been in this organization. I hope to fall in line with all the great catchers and continue to build and win championships."

McCann, a Gwinnett resident, recently agreed to a five-year, $85 million contract with the Yankees, after having played his entire career with the Atlanta Braves.

And already, there is talk of McCann following in the tradition of Yankee catchers such as Bill Dickey and Yogi Berra.

"We're hoping, clearly, that he will be able to continue the type of production both on the offensive and defensive side that he provided in Atlanta," Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman said. "And if he can continue to do that, you're talking about a potential Hall of Famer. So we're buying someone with that type of reputation and leadership. Obviously we have a lot of needs and this certainly fills one of them."

One thing McCann, a left-handed hitter, is sure to like about Yankee Stadium is the shorter than average right-field fence. McCann has hit at least 20 homers in the past six seasons.

"This ballpark should play to his skill level very well," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "And to me, what I really fell in love with -- you can look at the offensive numbers, you can look at how his pitching staff has been successful, but it's the way he plays the game and the intensity he brings."

-- How do you think McCann will do in New York? How will the Braves fare without him? Tell us in the comments below.