Offseason-In-Review: New York Yankees

Shanan H.Analyst IMarch 23, 2009

NEW YORK - JANUARY 06: Mark Teixeira talks to the media during a press conference to announce his signing to the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on January 6, 2009 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)

Don't you just love the look of that face in a Yankees hat...

The Yankees had a huge off-season, and promise to bring a World Series back to NYC.

Let's review the big moves.

11/13/08

Acquired INF/OF Nick Swisher and RHP Kanekoa Texeira from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for INF Wilson Betemit and RHPs Jeff Marquez and Jhonny Nunez.

I'm not sure about this move. I think I'd prefer Betemit's fielding versatility over Swisher's power, but Swisher will, is, and has put up a fight for right field, keeping Nady on his toes.

12/18/08

Yankees signed LHP CC Sabathia to a seven-year contract. Signed RHP A.J. Burnett to a five-year contract.

This big, fat, move re-did the Yankee's rotation, ailing from the antics of Phil Hughes and Carl Pavano. The Yankees now have arguably the best rotation, with C.C., Burnett, Wang, Joba, and Pettitte, and one of the best 1-2-3 in the rotation.

1/6/09

Signed 1B Mark Teixeira to an eight-year contract. Designated 1B Shelley Duncan for assignment.

Great move, and it was needed. I don't like letting Duncan go, but it has to do.

1/26/09

Re-signed LHP Andy Pettitte to a one-year contract.

I like this move, as Pettitte is normally reliable, and will make a good No. 5 starter.

So, there's the off-season. Here's their line-up and rotation:

CF: Johnny Damon

SS: Jeter

3B: A. Rodriguez

1B: Teixeira

RF: Nady