Yankees All-Star Break Report Card (Position Players)

Robinson Cano may have been embarrassed and tormented by Royals fans Monday and Tuesday night, but there is definitely something to cheer about in the Bronx that Kansas City can't : a playoff team. With the best record in the Majors at 52-33, the Yankees are showing depth and perseverance, despite their key injuries of CC Sabathia, Brett Gardner, Joba Chamberlain, and Andy Pettitte. With a seven game lead in the East division, along with the addition of another wild card team in the playoffs, it looks as if the Yanks will have a secured spot as the division winner. The worst case scenario would be representing the wild card, but with their potent bats and pitching, the Bombers are only starting to heat up.

STARTING LINEUP REPORT CARD:

CATCHER

Russell Martin: (D): Martin's bat has been non-existent the whole entire year. Although his defense is among the elite, injuries and slumps have kept him out of the lineup. What happened to the All-Star catcher Russell used to be not so long ago?

INFIELDERS

Robinson Cano: (A-): With a slow start to begin the season, Robbie has seriously been recognized as a potential MVP candidate with his sudden summer explosion of 12 HR's and 28 RBI's in June and July. His batting average has gone up, and his defense is beyond elite.

Derek Jeter: (A): Jeter has had an incredible season so far, with a + .300 BA as a lead-off hitter. At age 38, Jeter has earned and deserved every inning this year as the every day shortstop. The way he performs, Derek could possibly be here for more years to come.

Mark Teixeira: (C): Although Teixeira's defense is superb and seems effortless, his cold streak of April and May has brought its way into July. His bat is not as consistent as it should and has greatly affected the role of the number 3-5 spot in the lineup. Change has to come for Mark sooner than later. His performance cannot stay tolerated any longer. Change is vital.

Alex Rodriguez: (B): His expected power has been non-existent, but A-rod still is recognized with stellar defense and as a new role model in the clubhouse. The pop in his bat may not come back, but it doesn't mean Alex won't be a threat come October.

OUTFIELDERS


Curtis Granderson: (B): Granderson is an all-or-nothing hitter, either striking out or hitting the long ball. Besides his defense and base running, his hitting is a key factor in Yankee victories or losses. With a low batting average, Grandy needs to focus on base hits rather than putting balls in the seats. He is no ordinary number two hitter. He's a slugger. 

Andruw Jones/ Raul Ibanez: (B-): Both Jones and Ibanez have played important roles in the outfield with the loss of Brett Gardner. Andruw's occasional power is shown and Ibanez stays consistent with his bat, taking advantage of the short porch in right field. Both were "freebie" pickups, and luckily they have payed off for the Yanks.....luckily.....

Nick Swisher: (B): Swish has performed under the pressure of possibly moving out of NY by next year, and maybe has convinced Brian Cashman to re-sign him. Even though Swish can make a catch in the outfield a "Top 10" nominee or a complete screw up, his potent bat has surprised many and his loquacious personality is beyond great. He is honored to be wearing pinstripes and it could be time for fans to be honoring him the same way out in right field. He is Swishalicious.