New York Yankees: Lineup Analysis

Catcher: Jorge Posada

He’s getting older, but he’s still one of the best catchers in the game. He can hit for power, average, and his defense is always improving. He’s slow on the bases, but most catchers are, so it’s okay.

Overall, you can’t get much better at the position.

1st Base: Shelley Duncan

No one knows who the Yankees starting first baseman will be, but I’m taking a guess. Shelley has unbelievable power and adequate defense, despite being a career minor leaguer for so long.

In my opinion, he may be one of the biggest sleepers of the year.

2nd Base: Robinson Cano

One of the most beautiful swings in baseball, solid base running, and near-gold glove caliber defense. Still young, Cano is only getting better.

3rd Base: Alex Rodriguez

Despite what the critics say, A-Rod is the greatest player in baseball. Flawless in almost every category, A-Rod is a true five-tool player. Expect him to do some serious damage for the Bombers this year.

Shortstop: Derek Jeter

One of the most clutch players in the game, you can’t ask for much more than what you’ll get from Jeter. He may not be the most powerful or the fastest player in the game, but when the game’s on the line, you want Jeter at the plate.

Left Field: Johnny Damon

No, I didn’t make a mistake. This year, the Yankees have been talking about starting Damon in left field, moving Matsui to the DH spot. Damon is still a great player, but hopefully his pitifully weak arm won’t hurt the outfield defense for the Bombers.

Center Field: Melky Cabrera

Arguably the most underrated player in the game. It’s a shame he didn’t win a Gold Glove last year, as he clearly deserved it.

For the last two years, Cabrera has served as a catalyst to his teammates, always bringing the energy that the team needed to succeed. 

Basically, it’s just a matter of time before Cabrera joins the rest of his teammates in an All-Star game.

Right Field: Bobby Abreu

His stats may have declined over the years, but he’s still a very valuable piece of the team. He doesn’t get the glory, but he’s the on-base machine that sets up everyone else.

In 2008, he should continue to contribute in a similar fashion.

Designated Hitter: Hideki Matsui

The Yankees will likely be moving Matsui over to the DH spot in an effort to keep him healthy. If they succeed, Matsui should put up 100 plus RBI as a DH for the Bombers.