THE HICKS FACTOR

Photo: Getty Images

When the Yankees traded for Aaron Hicks before the 2016 season, most people saw him as just a mere replacement for the departed Chris Young. That is basically how he played during the season, and some people wondered if he would even be around for 2017.  Those people questioned him even being a bench player. Suddenly know, they're happy that he is. In fact, this piece from Sporting News states that regardless of Jacoby Ellsbury's status, the Yankees are better with Aaron Hicks in the lineup right now.

Photo: Getty Images

"While no team wants to see a player concussed, the Yankees have been better off with Jacoby Ellsbury sidelined and Aaron Hicks in the everyday lineup....the last thing Yankees fans wanted to see in 2017 was more of Aaron Hicks. Now, they can’t get enough of him. The 27-year-old has been terrific this season, having posted a .321/.432/.577 batting line with eight home runs and 31 RBIs in 44 games played."

May 27, 2017 - Source: Elsa/Getty Images North America

Going into the season we all expect the "stars" of the team to perform and put up great numbers. However, when they don't, they need to have a reliable replacement. Whether it be a game here or there of for an extended period of time, you don't want to lose a step. The bench players are expected to be there when called upon and contribute what they can. Aaron Hicks has been more than what was expected of him. In fact, with the loss of Ellsbury, he is now an everyday player and probably could have been on opening day. He's definitely put up the numbers in Spring Training to earn it but, I believe that from Joe Girardi up to Hal, they were intending on Aaron Judge being the Opening day right fielder. Hicks didn't have a chance. But as things look today, it's a good thing they are both in the starting lineup!

You gotta love Hicks right now.  But you gotta wonder what happens when a healthy Ellsbury comes back, and a smoking hot Hicks sits the bench again.  And so I ask you, the BYB reader... what would you do?

--Michael Carnesi
BYB Writer
Follow me on Twitter: @sevn4evr