While other teams have made significant deals this offseason, the Yanks have relatively stood still. They've signed several players to minor league contracts in hopes that they can create a healthy competition for a 4th outfield position. For those who are worried that the Yanks have been leapfrogged due to inactivity, remember the words from Douglas Adams: Don't Panic!
The Blue Jays have definitely improved and they should expect the services of Joey Bats sometime this year (wrist). With RA Dickey at their disposal, they will actually have a serviceable ace for the first time since Doc Halladay was throwing up North. The rotation should fill out nicely with Josh Johnson and Buehrle.
And as I recall, the Red Sox finally finished that deal for Napoli. Napoli is a big fan of Fenway and should put up decent numbers. John Lackey will pitch again apparently.
Everyone remembers how the Orioles gave the Yanks such fits the last few years. Fortunately, the one guy who seemed to really get up for the Yanks, Mark Reynolds, is off to greener pastures in Cleveland. Which is to say, the Orioles didn't want to pay him or just didn't want him. He was very error prone but could definitely crank a few out. They will also see the return of Nolan Reimold this year.
As for the last team in this division, the Tampa Bay Rays. Well, the James Shield's trade may end up being a big win for them. But trading for potential is always risky. However, they will still be in the mix for 85 - 90 games simply because Joe Maddon is a fantastic manager. He could take the Mets and make them good. . . .maybe.
The Yanks are old, they haven't improved; we've heard this song before. But let's not forget, this old team won the division and went to the ALCS with virtually the same roster. Swisher is out which will result in fewer bombs. You can't just replace 20 HRs/ 80 RBIs so easily and that will affect them. However, with Ichiro seeing more playing time, look for more runs generated, if they figure out how to hit with RISP. Youkilis will man 3rd for awhile and with Kevin Long's help, can probably be more serviceable than expected. And the rotation should be set with CC, Kuroda, Pettite, Hughes, and Nova. What about Pineda? Still here. Still working on getting back to the game.
There is also some promise on the Farm. We may have to wait a few more years to really get an impact player, but there are 2 or 3 solid pitchers ready to take over reliever roles and spot starts. David Phelps can probably be flipped for a bat off the bench or be held to see if he can hold his own on the back end. Rivera should be back, Robertson is still around, and we can't wait to see Mark Montgomery make his debut.
Though they haven't made a big move, they've resigned important pieces, have some home grown talent, and filled some holes. Will it be enough? That's the best part! I can't wait to find out!
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