Saturday, January 11, 2014

Pre-Season Outlook: New York Yankees

























Batting Order: Like the Red Sox, the Yankees some great hitters due to salary concerns (Mark Teixeira, 2000 Derek Jeter, 2000 Bernie Williams), but they field an all-around more potent line-up than their arch rivals. Cano and Granderson form the deadliest two-three duo in the AL East, with Granderson looking like a serious contender for the Home Run and extra-base hits titles. There is not a punt in their line-up, with nine hitter Knoblauch acting as another lead-off man. Overall, the most intimidating batting order in the AL East, top to bottom.

Rotation: Ivan Nova may give up doubles at 19, but 400 points for a tier 2 starter is an absolute steal. CC Sabathia looks like he'll be a workhorse and the high IP totals of the top two starters will keep the bullpen fresh to assist Nova. Hernandez is a thrifty #4 starter and should put up solid numbers. While they don't have a guy like Pedro, the Yankees still have a balanced and impressive rotation.

Bullpen: Amazingly, the Yankees had the option of using Mariano Rivera from 2001 (control 6, on at 17) or 2011 (control 5, on at 18). They chose the less expensive option (only 200 points!) for an all-time great, giving them a near sure thing in the ninth inning. The rest of the bullpen is shaky, but not bad either. Both Lowe and Stanton are capable pitchers, with Logan good in clutch situations.

Overall: The Yankees are a definite contender for the AL Pennant. Featuring a dynamic offense and deep rotation, it's hard to imagine they won't be in the running for a division crown all season.

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