Expectations for the New York Yankees in 2018
The New York Yankees have sky high expectations this season. It is understandable, as they have added one of the best players in baseball, despite shedding salary to get under the luxury tax threshold as they eye the coming free agent class of 2018.
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While that approach may pay dividends in the long term, it may be the downfall of the Yankees this year. Second and third are question marks, as is first base now that Greg Bird is injured once again. Currently, Neil Walker is listed atop the depth chart at first, leaving Tyler Wade to man second. Left and center remain question marks, especially as neither Jacoby Ellsbury nor Brett Gardner are bastions of health themselves.
There are also questions when it comes to the rotation. Luis Severino is now the staff ace, and Masahiro Tanaka and Sonny Gray are solid options in the second and third spots. But does CC Sabathia has anything left? Can Jordan Montgomery take the next step in his development?
We know two things right now about the Yankees – they are going to hammer the ball and the bullpen should be one of the best in the game. That ability to score runs by the bushel, and quickly, may be the Yankees greatest strength as we head into the 2018 campaign. Although, one has to suspect those holes will be addressed somehow over the course of the season.
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The New York Yankees have an impressive lineup, an excellent bullpen, and a solid farm system. Even though their eyes may be on the following year, 2018 will be a fun season to watch. Prediction: Second place in the AL East.