Yankees Claim Jeff Manto

The New York Yankees claimed infielder Jeff Manto off waivers Friday and added him to their 40-man roster.

Manto, 34, appeared in 12 games for the Cleveland Indians this season and was 5-for-25 with one homer and two RBIs. In 48 games at Triple-A Buffalo, Manto batted .322 with 16 homers and 34 RBIs.

In parts of eight major league seasons, Manto has a .227 average with 30 homers and 92 RBIs. He has played with Cleveland, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston and Seattle.

Manto originally was selected by the Yankees in the 35th round of the 1982 draft but did not sign. He was drafted by the Angels in 1985.

Manto, who will be added to the 25-man active roster when he reports, is expected to arrive before Saturday's game against Baltimore.

Clay Bellinger, who is hitless in his last 21 at-bats, is expected to be sent down to Triple-A Columbus.

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