Feb

4

A New Training

Filed Under Speculation, Spring Training | 1 Comment

Legends FieldAs spring training is quickly approaching, the Yankees seem to be in a different situation than past years. Why? For many years the Yankees have gone into spring training with a solid idea of who will be starting at each position, but this year there are several discrepancies, which will be decided by player performances this spring. This doesn’t mean that the Yankees didn’t get the players they wanted; it just shows how the Yankees are changing their ways. I think after Cashman’s amazing effort at reviving the farm system, a change like this should be welcomed because with more young players, spring training will be a lot more important in figuring out who will give us the best shot at getting those W’s. In my opinion it is all for the good and is a great complement to the Yankees new plan of going young.

Among the “fighting” positions are first base, starting pitching spots, relieving spots, and maybe even an outfield position. I think competition in spring training is great motivation to work harder, especially for young players and those who want to prove themselves. There will definetely be a big fight for first base with four potential starters (Shelley, Giambi, Betemit, and Ensberg.) The outfield is less iffy, but it will still see its share of competition with Matsui, Melky, Damon, and Abreu all vying for spots. The Yankees have also signed Jason Lane earlier and now have expressed interest in Kevin Mench, both of whom may seem like a long shots, but do have chances.

Then comes the pitching situation. This one has been talked about over and over again, so I won’t go into it too much again. Basically it comes down to figuring out which of the 6 potential starters get the 5 spots and which one gets a relief spot. As for the rest of the relieving spots, it will really come down to who does well in spring training.

I think this competition will only make our team stronger. It will also show us who are the better backups and who are the duds. Plus, with all of these extra players signed we are bound to find good replacements shall the injury bug hit.