You know you're overvaluing him.
The role he has know is perfect, as a starter for a prolonged period, you know he'd be exposed. Even hiding him in the 9 spot.
Besides, there's no need to have this discussion if the Yanks get a solid option.
And about the Defense, Ellsbury had a down year, but how you can say with a straight face that Gardner "Plays better D" is beyond me.