2009 MLB Team Preview: New York

Teixeira's monster offensive numbers should only increase playing with the loaded Yankee lineup. A smooth and compact swing helps him make contact almost every time. Has range limitations, but he's a solid defensive player.

An awful 2008 (.219 average) in Chicago has Yankee fans longing for a replacement at the bench. Swisher should see some action and has the power to post more the 10 HRs in his limited role.

Cano is coming off a brutal 2007. Not only was the former All Star a disappointment in the field (he never was an stellar fielder), but his lackluster effort at the plate has relegated him to the bottom of the order. His immense talent is wasted with his poor work effort.

At 35 years old, the veteran SS is capable of quality production but may be overvalued on draft day. He appears to be in decline as 2008 marked the first time he fell short of 200 hits since 2004. He's no longer a lock for 20-20 and 15-15 is more likely. Someone will overpay for the Yankee SS, I'd recommend going in a different direction.

A-rod delivers outstanding numbers even in down years and remains a 5 tool player. In 2008, he hit ONLY 35 home runs after blasting 54 in 2007. But he missed most of May with a quadriceps injury. Even at age 33 and amid the steroid allegations, he remains the safest bet in baseball to hit 40 home runs.

A 37 years old catcher coming off shoulder surgery = draft with caution. He's likely to only play in 100-125 games but the Yankees may get him into the lineup at 1B/DH. A return to his 2007 season form is unlikely (.338, 20HR, 90RBIs) but the Bronx Bomber lineup could make him starter worthy in 2009 if he can stay healthy.

Damon's greatest attribute Is that he hits leadoff in a loaded Yankee lineup and is adept at getting on base. If he can keep stealing bases he will be useful.

The Yankees corner outfield situation sure is crowded but many feel that Nady will be the best of the bunch in what is a contract year.

Matsui should play a lot of DH for the Bronx Bombers which should give him a lot of rest most days. A productive season could be forthcoming

Matsui developed inflammation in his left knee late in June and couldn't play again until August. At age 34 and coming off surgery, he's only average 96 games over his last three seasons. When healthy he's capable of 15-20, but he won't play every day as the deep Yankees have numerous outfield/DH options.

Was an absolute beast the second half of last season but his move to the scary good A.L. East will bring his numbers down.

The Yankees paid 81 million to find out if Burnett could avoid some of his injury struggles of the past. If healthy, another 200 K's is very likely.

The Yankees will coddle this young fireballer and limit his innings as the fifth starter. A move back to the bullpen is still very possible.

A foot injury stopped another one of Wang's famous 18 win seasons. With the Yankees reloading this offseason there is a lot of upside here.

Back with the Yankees for about 1/3 of his last year's salary, Petitte should put up good win totals in that reloaded Yankee lineup.

The veteran player could began to slid this season. Another solid campaign in 2008, but a far cry from a dominant one.