New York Yankees 2009 Season Preview

Logan on 03 6, 2009

2008 New York Yankee Review:

In the historic Yankee Stadium’s last season, the Yankees disappointed what has become a somewhat spoiled fan base with a third place finish and a record of 89-73. After the departure of Joe Torre, new manager Joe Girardi struggled through pitching injuries and clubhouse squabbles doing his best to establish control of a team chalked full of veterans. From an offensive standpoint, the Yankees were exceptional overall. Led by another stellar season from team captain Derek Jeter and star third baseman Alex Rodriguez, the Yankees had little problems finding run support for their pitching. However, their pitching staff needed more than that, especially when looking at the starting rotation. Other than Mussina (who compiled 20 wins to go along with a 3.37 ERA), the starting staff was dismal and really struggled to eat up innings putting a lot of strain on their bullpen. Only Andy Pettite and Mussina had double digit wins. Mariano Rivera was great, and Joba Chamberlain showed us again why he should remain a set-up man, as both had tremendous seasons. Despite their offensive production, the Yankees would miss the playoffs finishing third in what has become the toughest division in all of baseball.

2009 New York Yankee Preview:

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few months, you are well aware of the Yankees’ off-season spending spree. After signing A.J. Burnett, C.C. Sabathia and Mark Teixiera, you can expect the Yankees to win well above 90 games. With the additions of Burnett and Sabathia, the Yankees very much addressed their biggest problem of a year ago, a year in which they still managed to win 89 games. Mark Teixiera is an enormous upgrade to an already respectable infield. Now with Jeter at shortstop, Robinson Cano at second base, Teixiera at first base, and after he returns from injury, Alex Rodriguez at third base, it’s hard to find a weakness…especially offensively. The only question remaining is how will their pen set-up for Rivera? This shouldn’t be too large an issue given the new rotation, but I think it will be a big enough weakness to keep New York from opening their new stadium with an AL East division title.

New York Yankee Surprise Player of 2009:

Brett Gardner may not be known outside of New York to casual baseball observers, but you can be sure the Yankees’ knowledgeable baseball fanatics are watching this kid and waiting for him to make a long-term appearance. The left handed hitting outfielder is scary fast and has a great glove. Currently (3/5/09) hitting .417 in his 2009 Spring Training campaign, look for Gardner to make an immediate impact on a lineup that is in need of some serious speed.

New York Yankee Projected 2009 record:

2nd place in the AL East with a record of 92-70 (Wild Card).