Yankees demote Cabrera, release Sexson

NEW YORK, Aug. 15 (UPI) -- The struggling New York Yankees made two roster moves Friday, demoting center fielder Melky Cabrera and releasing first baseman/DH Richie Sexson.

More was expected from Cabrera and the 34-year-old Sexson had been viewed as a low-risk acquisition when he was signed in July after being released by Seattle.

Cabrera, the Yankees' starting center fielder on Opening Day, was hitting .242 with eight home runs and 36 RBI in 117 games (401 at-bats).

He was sent to the Yankees' Triple-A International League affiliate at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Since he joined the Yankees, Sexson was hitting .250 with one home run and six RBI in 28 at-bats.

He has been designated for assignment.

Their replacements are rookie Brett Gardner, recalled from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and infielder Cody Ransom.

Before playing Kansas City Friday night, the Yankees had a 64-57 record -- 3-7 in their last 10 contests -- and trailed AL East-leading Tampa Bay by 9 1/2 games.