NEW YORK -- As the Yankees waited to complete a trade for Randy Johnson, the club made another move on Thursday, bringing former Yankee Tino Martinez back to the Bronx.

 

According to a source with knowledge of the situation, Martinez passed his physical at the Yankees' complex in Tampa, Fla., and the deal could be announced within a day or two.

 

Martinez signed a one-year deal, though exact terms were not available. He will likely share time at first base and DH with Jason Giambi. He also gives New York a viable option at first base should Giambi experience any health problems.

 

When reached by phone, general manager Brian Cashman declined comment on the matter.

 

Martinez played for the Yankees from 1996-2001, and helped the team win four World Series titles in that time. He drove in 100 or more runs in five of his six seasons in pinstripes, including 1997, when he finished second in the American League's MVP voting.

 

In 15 seasons, Martinez has a .272 average, 322 home runs and 1,222 RBIs, and has played in two All-Star Games. Last season, Martinez hit .262 with 23 home runs and 76 RBIs for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

 

New York has spent its offseason focused on pitching, signing Carl Pavano and Jaret Wright to bolster its rotation. The team also traded for relievers Mike Stanton and Felix Rodriguez, filling out the bullpen for 2005.

 

Martinez is just the second position player added by the Yankees this winter, joining second baseman Tony Womack.

 

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