Yankees lineup: What will it look like throughout the season?

No. 4 spot

Of the spots analyzed so far, this is the easiest to determine. With Judge already penciled in at No. 2, the only possible competition would be Stanton vs. Sanchez.

While both of them would make excellent cleanup hitters on any team, the apparent advantage here goes to Stanton. Coming off an MVP season, it’s hard to bat Stanton outside of the top four.

No. 5 spot

The middle of the lineup is where the Yankees’ embarrassment of riches in power hitters comes into focus. Gary Sanchez, a catcher who hit 33 home runs last year after missing the first month of the season, hits fifth.

While it’s possible that slumps can move players around, these four and five spots almost automatically go to Stanton and Sanchez.

No. 6 spot

After two righties, this slot will likely go to a lefty. With either Bird or Gregorius batting third, the other would hit here. Boone would probably rotate guys based on who has the hot bat.

No. 7 spot

Now things get interesting. The Yankees could go with Hicks or Gardner depending on who is batting leadoff (and is producing).

However, with a lefty batting sixth, this spot could go to rookie Miguel Andujar.

The righty has good power and contact bat. Andujar doesn’t strikeout much, so he would be suitable for driving in runners. Another candidate for this spot would likely be fellow prospect, Gleyber Torres.