At this time last season, the Yankees looked like a team on the decline. Of course, they were coming off an 89-73 record that teams like the Nationals and Orioles would kill for, but they also finished third in their own division with little immediate help coming from the farm system.
But there is no rebuilding in the Bronx. The Yankees instead targeted three key free agents — and somehow landed them all. CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett have stabilized the pitching staff. First baseman Mark Teixeira filled a gaping hole at first base. Nine months after that free-agent haul, New York resumed its rightful place atop the AL East with 103 wins. It’s easy to write checks. But give the Yankees’ front office credit. Not only did they make three big signings, each of them has performed. Trust us — that doesn’t always happen.
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Sabathia » A contender for the Cy Young Award (19-8, 3.37 ERA), the big man also has been lights out in the playoffs — 24 2/3 innings, 17 hits, three earned runs. Oh, and he saved the Yankees bullpen by pitching eight innings on short rest in Tuesday’s 10-1 ALCS victory over the Angels. Sabathia also is ready to pitch Game 7, if needed. It won’t be.
Teixeira » He played as advertised during the regular season (.292 average, 39 homers, 122 RBI). Teixeira is struggling at the plate in the postseason (4-for-30 with just one RBI), but have you seen his defense? Teixeira keeps materializing out of nowhere, snaring a line drive 30 feet away from first or — for no good reason — covering second base just in case the runner overruns the bag on a relay throw.
Burnett » Pretty much what the Yankees expected (13-9, 4.04 ERA). They haven’t relied on Burnett as much as Sabathia yet this postseason. But he will pitch in Anaheim Thursday with a chance to close out the series in five games. So far, Burnett has allowed three earned runs on six hits in 12 1/3 postseason innings. He did walk five batters in an ALDS start vs. Minnesota. New York has won both of his starts, 4-3.
