Long time since I've been here. It's nice to see some familiar faces, and just as nice to see a new batch of Yankee fans posting across enemy lines.
A lot of the Yankee fans I've talked to are pissed about the Youk signing, but all things considered, I think he was the best available option, and I'm looking forward to seeing him don the pinstripes. I'm not expecting much out of him, but as long as he gets on base and plays with that grit and passion that he's known for, I'll be satisfied.
I was very disappointed to see Martin leave (but glad to see him end up in Pittsburgh. Some of you might remember, but for several years I've been closely following the Pirates. It's nice to see them getting closer and closer), but I'm more than content with letting Cervelli & Stewart split time while Romine gets some time in AAA. I know a lot of Yankee fans feel that we need to go out and overpay for a Pierzynski type or something, but I fully disagree. Curious to hear what some of your guys' take is on the catching situation.
I'm glad we're (likely) bringing back Ichiro, but I'm a little concerned about the offensive output of our outfield this coming year. Either way though, this has to be one of the top defensive OF's in the game.
I'm very curious to see how the Granderson situation plays out. I doubt he'll get traded during the offseason or regular season, but it'll be interesting to see what happens next year. Personally, I think we should resign him, so long as the strikeout numbers improve. But outside of signing Hamilton (which there is probably absolutely zero chance of if they're serious about staying under the luxury tax threshold for next year, which it seems they are, as they should be, and understandably so...paying 50% on the luxury tax is ridiculous), he's the only source of power in our OF.
Speaking of power, who else sees Cano leaving town after this season? I'm sure Boras will get him a better deal somewhere, probably with the Dodgers, and since he's already said there will be no hometown discount, he'll probably take it. What do you guys think the odds of us shopping him for an extremely hefty return come July are? It might seem unthinkable now, but it wouldn't shock me. I realize that for now I'm getting ahead of myself, so let's just stick to the current offseason.
What other major needs do you guys see? It'd be nice to have another arm for the pen, but I'd be content giving Montgomery every chance to win the job. As for the bench, I know this is probably a very unpopular opinion given his postseason performance, but I don't think we should bring Raaaauuuul back. As for infield depth, it looks like Nunez will be on the roster, and Nix will come to camp with every opportunity to play his way back on to the roster. Another possibility that someone discussed with me is bringing Chone Figgins to camp to try out for a super utility role. Now before you all laugh at me, think about it. Versatile guy, can play almost anywhere, and wouldn't cost us more than a minor league contract and an invite to spring training. If he makes the club, we're on the hook for the league minimum. I think it's worth a shot.
Well I look forward to catching up with you guys again, and hearing your opinions.