Yankees fans and readers: Questions, comments and complaints

Yankees fans and readers have plenty to say. Now, at the mid-point of the season, is a good time to address your questions and comments from some first half articles.

Yankees universe is filled with erudite baseball fans. It’s a world-wide community with opinions and people as varied as those that fill the number four train after a game. And we are all involved in an on-going conversation about the Bronx Bombers.

When I write an article, I think of it as being part of that conversation, whether I am adding to an existing topic or starting a new one. I am, of course, thrilled and humbled that anyone would take the time to read these pieces. There are so many great writers out there, most of them right here at YanksGoYard.

So when Yankees readers take the time to leave comments, they are taking an active part in that conversation. Now it’s time to put the focus on you.

Leading off and Playing Second: Mike Darwin

One of my most recent articles was on some of the best prospects playing today. In it, I mentioned a player needs to have some home run power to play second base. Mike Darwin questioned this suggestion.

Mike, I agree that second is not as important a power position as first base or right field, and maybe I overstated it. But second base today features some big hitters and great offensive players, including Robinson Cano, Brian Dozier (42 home runs last year), now all-world Daniel Murphy, Dustin Pedroia, and Rougned Odor (33 HR last year). Even Ian Kinsler hit 28 last year.

And that does not include the current Yankees second baseman, Starlin Castro. He has 12 so far and would easily be on pace for over 30 if he had not gotten injured. I think second base has to produce some power these days. Did I convince you?

BillyBall questioned why Blake Rutherford was number ten, from the same article. I love Rutherford, BillyBall, but the list is about how players are performing right now, not on projections. His numbers, in my opinion, only make him the tenth best. Now it’s your turn. I hope you will share your top ten.

CDACE13 was kind enough to contribute her thoughts on a tongue-in-cheek piece from a few days ago. Yes, CDACE13, we have all been scarred by Tyler snuggling Clippard. Good luck and I’ll see you in Yankee’s group therapy!

A Relief Appearance

Here is a piece I did on the best available relievers the Yankees will likely target. One name I left off of that list is David Robertson. Greg Antonacci called me on it.

Greg, there is no other way of saying it: I forgot about David Robertson. But I looked him up on your suggestion. He currently stands with a 2.87 ERA and WHIP of 1.021, with 46 strikeouts in 31 innings. His home runs are up a bit—he has four this year while he has not given up more than seven in his career—but my guess is that is an aberration.

So, yes, the Yankees should get back this Bronx favorite if they can. I would be worried about the price the White Sox have demanded in all of their recent trades but, if the price is right, absolutely. And good call.

Corky, you know the system well and always have great comments. But you are wrong about the errors, from this article. Prospects are judged every year, and it doesn’t matter who had the most errors last year. I still think Frazier is a better prospect because of his power and Fowler’s average throwing arm. What do you think?

But you have been a big supporter of Fowler’s, and you were right.

And come on Corky; “dismissive and irresponsible” for not mentioning Ronald Herrera? Still, I would rather you read it and leave a tough critique than not read it at all! Keep ‘em coming, Corky.

So, You Think Judge has Staying Power?

Here is a piece from May, where I projected both Blake Rutherford and Estevan Florial as future Yankees outfielders. Both here and on the Facebook page, many people questioned my conclusion, although fans like Ray Amore and CDACE13 (again) showed Rutherford a lot of love.

Some fans noted that Aaron Judge is already in right field. Others pointed out that there are five prospects fighting for three spots: Judge, Rutherford, Florial, Fowler, and Clint Frazier. The group might also produce the fourth outfielder but let’s assume the Yankees keep three.

More from Yanks Go Yard

Well, Judge is a yes, we all see that. And I think Fowler has the least upside, even with all his talent. He doesn’t have a great arm and will never hit for the power that the others will. It is also likely that one of the remaining players will not be good enough.

My feeling is that Judge, Rutherford, and Florial will end up the best of the bunch, with Rutherford moving to left field. What do you think? Which three will play the outfield in three years?

And I agree with you, Derrick Pasley, that talent is just the beginning of a great player. Intangibles and baseball smarts make the difference between a good player and a real prospect. But it is so hard to scout these players. I read all the reports and articles but nothing can make up for seeing a player for a month or so, and I can’t do that.

Well, That Sucked

It’s why I get excited about statements like, “student of the game” and “unparalleled work ethic.” But you and I will both have to wait to see these players in pinstripes before we will know what they can be.

And thank you, NYBamBam, for noticing the ironic nature of this post. And I loved your explanation!

Well, that was at least a fun half Yankees season to have a conversation about. And I appreciate not just the comments but the knowledge and passion you, the readers and commentators, bring to the discussion. I write for you, and I love your comments because it enlarges the debate and adds other perspectives.

Next: Four of the Greatest Yankees Teams that Never Were

But before I go, I have to say special thanks to Donnie Passmore. I see your comments all over the site. Thanks for being a loyal reader and smart contributor. And a special shout out to Lou and RV; thanks, guys. I pretty much end writing every article thinking, “Well, that sucked.” I appreciate the encouragement. If you keep reading ’em, I’ll keep writing ’em.

Now let’s all get back to enjoying the 2017 Yankees season. And arguing about the best way to save it.