2009 Projections: Gauging the New York Yankees' Hitters

With the 2009 season rapidly approaching, the New York Yankees' lineup seems to be set. The batting order has yet to be determined, so while we wait for that, I have listed the Yankee hitters (in no particular order) and what I think they are capable of this season.

Johnny Damon:  Damon went from hitting .270 to .303, improving his average greatly from 2007 to 2008. This season, he will probably hit around .290, and while the power numbers won't be great, Damon should find ways to get on base and get knocked in.

Derek Jeter:  Entering his 15th season, Jeter is 34 and his numbers continue to decline.  However, he still is a great defensive player and his offensive numbers are still good. He may hit under .300 this season and only knock in 10 home runs, but he will still get plenty of runs hitting in front of Rodriguez and Teixeira. With one of these guys standing on deck, the pitcher will be a lot more nervous then he was when Abreu was on deck.  Jeter will see some great pitches.

Alex Rodriguez:  While A-Rod's power numbers dropped in the last year, you must remember he played in the fewest amount of games since 1995. Rodriguez battled a leg injury and was out of action for a few weeks, but he still managed to hit 35 HR while knocking in 103 RBI. This year, if healthy, A-Rod should hit around .300, knock in 45-50 HR and 125-135 RBI on his way to a potential fourth MVP. Let's not forget that he could be hitting his 600th HR in late September; he is only 47 away.

Mark Teixeira:  The "new guy" in the lineup should fit in nicely over at first base. Don't expect Teixeira to hit under .300 or 30 HR as his numbers continue to rise. He should be a top first baseman in the American League and hit .305 while knocking in 40 HR and 130 RBI. Unlike the last two seasons, Teixeira will stay put and not switch teams/leagues halfway through the season. Being well paid and playing for the Yankees shouldn't hurt either.

Jorge Posada:  Like Jeter, Posada is entering his 15th season and age is a factor. Also, the wear and tear that Posada puts on his knees is a concern as well. However, with Jose Molina in the lineup at times, Posada can get some rest and maybe DH a few games as well. I look for him to hit around .290 with 18 HR and 80 RBI.

Hideki Matsui:  Ever since his fast start in his first three seasons, Matsui has battled a few injuries while playing in the outfield. I don't expect a great season from Matsui, but I think his numbers will begin to improve. He should hit around .290 with 25 HR and 115 RBI.

Robinson Cano:  Cano has so much potential, which is why it bothers me when he doesn't play well. In four seasons, clinging to a lifetime average of .303, Cano has yet to hit over 20 HR or 100 RBI. While his numbers aren't great, they aren't bad either. You just never know what you are going to get; still, I think he will hit close to 20 HR and around 90 RBI this season.

Xavier Nady, Melky Cabrera, and Nick Swisher make up the rest of the lineup.  Spring training will hopefully give us a clearer answer on the batting order.