WHY THE YANKEE BENCH WILL BE A FACTOR

I was thinking about how the Yankee bench will play out today. True, all we've been thinking about is the Yankee rotation, but the reality is, a bench full of speed and pop is important and right now, we don't have one. Sure, Eduardo Nunez is there, but Eric Chavez and Andruw Jones still need to be signed. Yes, Jayson Nix was signed to a minor league deal, and most likely he'll make the roster but his strength is utility, he's not going to crank a late inning home run for you.

Personally, I have no problem bringing back Andruw Jones. He did as expected for us last year and if he had more at bats, who knows, he might have cranked out a few more home runs, but over all, he did well for us.
Eric Chavez to me was the smartest Yankee signing of 2011. Yes, he did get hurt and we knew that would happen given his track record, but when he was in the lineup, he was constantly productive and let's not forget, his fielding as a backup infielder is above average, a 6 time Gold Glover who really just knows hows to do his job, plus, let's face it, he knew his at bats and playing time was limited and did the best with what he had, he accepted it and never bitched. That Ladies and Gentlemen has translated to wanting more in 2012. He took the speculation of whether or not to retire and decided against and good for him, it's much too early for Eric Chavez to hang it up. I'd welcome back Chavez with open arms.Another veteran who knows how to play the game and actually has some power is Bill Hall. I know, it's not the guy you'd think to sign, especially if you have Andruw Jones and Eric Chavez already on the bench as veterans but I tell you, there is something special about Bill Hall that brings a smile to my face. The guy knows the game, plus, he can play 2nd base or the outfield. Now there is one problem with Hall, he's going to want more money than he's worth, I predict so, if he were to be reasonable about life as a bench player on the New York Yankees, I would get this guy, otherwise, he ain't worth it.

There are plenty of guys that have a lot of offer at a decent price that would fit nicely on our bench, but these players have got to do what Eric Chavez has done brilliantly, accepted the role and capitalized on it. Now, not only does he want to come back for more, but the Yankees are possibly interested again. Take a look at the other guy who I believe would accept that bench role.1B- Russell Branyan
IF- Jerry Hairston Jr.
OF- Jonny Gomes
OF- Marcus Thames
OF- Cody Ross
DH- Johnny Damon

What do you think? Comment.

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