Photo courtesy of
SportsIllustrated.com
Possibly
the biggest question headed into the off-season is who will replace Derek
Jeter. With 3,465 hits over 20 seasons compiling 260 homeruns with 1311 RBI,
it’s no wonder he was voted into 14 All-star games. His 5 championship rings
leaves him just 1 short of Michael Jordan. Jeter was almost a guarantee to be
playing shortstop every single game of the season, and most of the time leading
his team to the playoffs. His defensive solidarity and clutch ability at plate will
make filling his shoes a near impossible job. But options are out there.
The first
option is thru trade. Troy Tulowiski of the Colorado Rockies is arguably the
best all-around shortstop in the game for years to come. His .299 batting
average with 176 homeruns and 604 RBI over 9 years puts him on track to match
Jeter’s historic numbers. In a interview with Mark Kiszla of The Denver Post
Tulowiski said, “I don’t want to be the next in line as someone who was here
for a long time and didn’t have a chance to win every single year.” At 30 years
old his presence in the Yankees line up could be the nudge they need to get
back into the playoffs. But Tulo is still under contact for 6 more years and
the Rockies aren’t going to part with him easily.
The other
option is free agency and best shortstop on the market is Hanely Ramirez. His
prowess on the field and presence in the clubhouse could push any team up the
standings. Hanley is currently holds a .300 average with 190 homeruns and 654
RBI in 10 seasons. He has always been a crucial part of any team and having the
protection of a healthy Yankees line up behind should allow him to relax, find
that good swing, and drive the ball all over Yankee Stadium.
The down
side to both of these options is both players have a history of injury and a
high price tag. The third option is to bring up a prospect from the minors, but
unfortunately the Yankees farm system is depleted. Whichever option the Yankees
choose, one thing is clear that person will have huge shoes to fill.
- Elyson Hernandez
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