Where Should Robinson Cano Bat?

Robinson Cano has spent time in the two-hole this year. While this gives protection for Brett Gardner, and may get him a few extra at bats, is this his ideal spot in the lineup?

The third spot is traditionally the spot given to the New York Yankees top hitter. It is where Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle were traditionally penciled in. If the tradition is upheld, Cano should hit there.

But the fourth place is considered the power spot. Batting clean-up, in theory, provides more RBI opportunities. This is the spot that Reggie Jackson coveted.

Batting fifth is important as well. Not only is this batter expected to produce RBI, but he also must provide protection for the clean-up hitter.

So, where would you bat Cano? Would you drop him down in the order or leave him where he is? Certainly, manager Joe Girardi has his finger on the Yankees’ pulse and has placed him there for a reason.

Cano is off to such a hot start that Girardi may opt to just leave well enough alone. The temptation to not fix something that isn’t broken could win out.

Still, when Mark Teixeira, Derek Jeter and Curtis Granderson are all back, Cano may settle in the fifth spot. It is the place where all of his talents are utilized. His power numbers certainly should increase. His high batting average could make him a table-setter for the bottom of the line-up, as well.

In the post-season, the Yankees must get production from the top and bottom of the line-up. We know CC Sabathia, Andy Pettitte

Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

and Hiroki Kuroda will find a way to limit teams to three or four runs. Production from the bottom of the line-up could make the difference in the Yankees getting the four or five runs per game that they will need.