And here's the lineup breakdown for players on the team with fewer than 280 plate appearances this season. Let's call them the backups and the DL group. Later we'll get to the everyday guys...those players who have had the greatest impact on the Yankees' fortunes this year.
Mariano- His .500 OBP leads the team!
Hinske-With three home runs in 12 at bats, the "lucky charm" leads the team with a 1.500+ OPS. Welcome to NY.
Berroa-He played a nice third base, but one needs to hit better than .170 to play in the major leagues.
Ransom-Is hitting .233, and was reliable and a spark when A-Rod was out. Lots of respect for the journeyman, who seems slightly starstruck in the dugout.
Kevin Cash-Nice job as a backup to the backup to the backup to Posada. We didn't expect anything crazy, just good work behind the plate, and he provided it.
Cervelli-Mr. Cervelli has the potential to be a real Yankee. A fiery warrior behind and at the plate, Cervelli is a dream successor to Posada, with a decent bat and outstanding defensive skills, along with an ability to get along with pitchers. He'll get stronger in AAA and return to the Yankees when he's ready.
Pena-OPS was a minuscule .657 but he had some memorable hits, and slick fielding. Fans and players like the guy, and he could become the defensive utility infielder of the future.
Nady-An excellent hitter with a bum arm. He would be such an addition to the team in right field and batting 6th or 7th. But it is not to be!
Molina-He does execute in the clutch. And he's an elite defensive catcher. Molina is a solid backup until Cervelli is ready.
Gardner-With an OBP of .350+ and 18 stolen bases so far, Gardner could be the leadoff man/center fielder of the future. A white (but not quite as skilled) Juan Pierre? And of course, Mr. Gardner has an inside the park home run, and seems to take bases whenever he feels like it.
Posada-He's been in and out of the lineup this year, but Jorge is the man, always has been. He's an elite hitter who will perform in the clutch. And he's a fine catcher, thank you very much. This year he's had countless big hits.
A-Rod-The Yankees went on a tear when A-Rod returned to the lineup. Though he slumped for a bit, he's now sitting on a .256 average and 17 home runs. And he's constantly walking. His presence makes everyone better and more confident. He has also had some very big hits, which has cast some doubt on the "choke artist", "A-Fraud" label. Some fans will forgive him already, but I won't. Even if he plays well down the stretch, he'll still be a chump in my eyes...until he gets it done in October.
No comments:
Post a Comment