Eric Chavez, a former Yankees third baseman, retired as a player this year. (Getty)

The Yankees have hired longtime star third baseman Eric Chavez as a special assignment scout.

Chavez, the former A's, Yankees and Diamondbacks player who retired this year, has said all along he wants to remain in the game. Chavez has been close to GM Brian Cashman and assistant GM Billy Eppler since playing there.

Some teams view him as a potential hitting coach, too, but it isn't known if Chavez seeks that type of job at this time.

The Yankees are still seeking a hitting coach.

Chavez was beloved by all the teams he played for, and is likely to be a candidate in the future for any number of positions.