Yankees: Their Top Five second basemen over the last half-century

Typically, a Yankees lineup features power hitting outfielders, first and third basemen, and occasionally a catcher. Often overlooked are those who have held down the second base position on teams that routinely won championships. This is a tribute to those players.

When the Yankees build a championship team, they almost always concentrate on strength up the middle. Even today, the team the Yankees field focuses on their shortstop, Didi Gregorius, their second baseman, Starlin Castro, catcher Gary Sanchez, and Aaron Hicks who is admirably filling in for Jacoby Ellsbury.

And before that, the Core Five tandem that included Bernie Williams, Derek Jeter, and Jorge Posada won four World Championships in five years based on the same premise.

As we know, the game of baseball has changed, and the accent on power is expected from all positions. Castro doesn’t disappoint as he already has 12 home runs and 45 RBI in less than half a season.

And the power keeps on coming when you consider Jose Altuve and his ten home runs with 34 batted in, Daniel Murphy with 12 bombs and 39 driven in, and Brian Dozier who has 12 home runs and 32 RBI in less than half a season.

But when you look at the second base position, there is more to consider than just power. The second baseman is one-half of the double play combination that must make those plays that get pitchers out of a potential big inning.

The second baseman must make all the routine plays as well and coordinate with the shortstop as to who’s covering on a steal. Add to that covering first base on a sacrifice bunt, and you have the makings of a player who automatically is an integral part of any team.

So, with all that in mind, let’s take a look back at the last half-century of New York Yankees second baseman with an eye towards picking out the best. Leading off………