Wednesday, December 03, 2008

THE JETER PROBLEM

There is talk that the Yanks have a real problem facing them in regards to their number one icon: Derek Jeter. His fielding skill and batting prowess are converging to the point where he has no position. What this means is, his range at short has deteriorated enough that he is no longer an effective shortstop (or second basemen, for those of you looking for the simple solution). He no longer hits with enough power to warrant a corner position (3rd, 1st or left/right field). Yet, he is still a good enough hitter to remain in the 2 spot and get his 600 at-bats per year. What to do, what to do.

Never fear, sports fans, Picasner has the answer. In fact, Picasner has felt this move should have been made a few years ago. CENTER FIELD. The Yanks have been looking to upgrade there ever since Melky Cabrera has shown an increasing ability to be pathetic from both sides of the plate and intersperses an occassional bonehead play with his speed and great arm. Jeter has the speed and his arm is still tops and besides, he has a rare quality that makes him very valuable: he seems to find the one big play that changes a game. It's something that can't be taught. He'll find a way to utilize that ability in center. One more year at short and then move him. 190 hits, 15 homers, 100 runs scored, 70 rbis and 25 stolen bases...yeah, we can live with that.

Now, we need a shortstop.

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