New York Yankees 2020 Projections: Aaron Hicks

Aaron Hicks has been one of the most consistent players on the Yankees roster despite suffering injuries keeping him on the shelf for a while.

Aaron Hicks, when healthy, is one of the best players on the New York Yankees roster. He can play defense at an All-Star level, he can hit for contact and power, and his speed makes him a dangerous player in every phase of the game.

Hicks was not known as a power hitter before coming to the Bronx, and he has benefited from the short porch in right field. Last year Hicks missed significant time due to injury, so his numbers were very poor. In 59 games, Hicks hit .235, 52 hits, 12 home runs, and 36 RBI. He had a career year in 2018 playing in 137 games, hitting .248, 27 home runs and 79 RBI.

Defensively, Hicks has helped solidify the Yankees offense by commanding centerfield for the last few seasons. His catch against his former team, Minnesota Twins, last season was one of the most excellent catches in Yankees history. He rarely makes mistakes tracking fly balls and has an accurate arm, so he rarely makes an error.

I wasn’t a fan of Hicks when he first joined the Yankees 4 years ago. However, he won me over with his clutch defense as well as his power hitting. He has been a critical piece to the Yankees’ success over the last few seasons, but if he is healthy and can play a full season, there is no telling where his ceiling is.

5 Yankees who are flying under the radar

With a team as star-studded as the New York Yankees, it's no surprise that a handful of players are flying under the radar of late.

He is coming off of Tommy John surgery so he should be ready to return to action as soon as the season begins. Due to his history of injuries, Hicks should not rush to return to play. It would be smart for him to take his time, so when he does return, he can reciprocate the numbers from 2018.