Fansided

New York Yankees on a quest to quell haters’ desires in 2018

By Kyle Cardoza |
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 18: Gary Sanchez
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 18: Gary Sanchez

It’s clear that most baseball fans dislike the New York Yankees for reasons that surpass the team’s money and its current makeup. However, they may hate them even more if the club can accomplish its primary goal in 2018.

Everyone hates the New York Yankees.

While that apparently isn’t the truth for fans in the Bronx, it seems to be that way for most other baseball fans. FiveThirtyEight conducted a study in the middle of summer to determine which team should don the notorious title.

New York finished in first place. Now, with the addition of Giancarlo Stanton as a result of this offseason’s most significant blockbuster trade, fans hate the Yankees even more.

But the club will ignore the hatred and attempt to spoil most fans’ desires during the 2018 season. By winning the club’s 28th World Series championship, New York can put the proverbial icing on the cake of despise.

The Yankees essentially added just one piece thus far in Stanton this offseason, but it was the biggest splash. Yet, they also disposed of some players to get more cap space and are currently attempting to deal for another starting pitcher.

Even if the front office stands at the beginning of Spring Training, the team has a legitimate shot at claiming another title. But New York may have the most stringent route to get there.

Boston possesses as talented a club as any with its mix of youth and power in the lineup and a rotation headed by sidewinder Chris Sale. The Red Sox can still sign J.D. Martinez or add another free agent to intimidate its competitors.

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Nevertheless, while the rest of the American League East teams don’t look like convincing contenders, they will still compete.

Then there are a handful of players outside of the division that will give the Yankees trouble should they make the playoffs.

The Angels, Mariners, Indians, and Astros are all capable of deep runs. Also, there is always a surprise that works its way into October as well.

But fans have to appreciate the Bronx Bombers’ chances to bring in a championship in manager Aaron Boone’s first season.

New York finished second in the league in runs scored this past season. But they added the National League MVP, who typically guarantees 30 home runs and at least 80 RBIs if healthy. Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez and Greg Bird could break records because of their power strokes.

After the Yankees signed C.C. Sabathia, it set a five-man rotation that is overflowing with young talent. Chad Green could be a potential sixth addition to the plan, but that’s a decision Boone will have to make heading into Opening Day.

Don’t forget the bullpen either, which boasts two closing pitchers and several reliable weapons to quash even the best hitters.

General Manager Brian Cashman is unpredictable, looking to add an extra piece, such as Gerrit Cole before the new year arrives. If the former UCLA standout joins the club, it could officially be a favorite in the league.

And no one can forget the plethora of players waiting to contribute to the MLB squad. Gleyber Torres and Chance Adams are just two of several studs that can make an impact in 2018. Miguel Andujar and Tyler Wade are two more that can immediately play a role for the Yankees.

It’s a good sign when opposing teams – and their fans – complain because it means the organization is doing something right. Every MLB season is long and filled with obstacles, but next year looks promising for the pinstriped regiment.

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And by this time next season, the Evil Empire may have received what it wanted for the holidays – No. 28. Meanwhile, opposing fans and haters might have to endure an entire offseason with the most hated team celebrating a milestone victory.

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