The start of the 2011 MLB season is fast approaching, but instead of a loaded roster, the Yankees have some glaring weaknesses, especially in the pitching rotation.
Andy Pettitte has retired, which is a major blow to the pitching rotation. He was consistent in the regular season, and won more playoff games than any other pitcher in history.
Starting pitcher A.J. Burnett had a horrid 2010 season, and Javier Vasquez is now with the Florida Marlins.
Aside from C.C. Sabathia and Phil Hughes, the Yankees are looking at a weak rotation. A solution? Pursue another stud pitcher, right?
A couple weeks ago, ESPN reported the Yankees' interest in Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano. He was the 2010 AL Comeback Player of the Year, and despite his past injury struggles, Liriano would provide immediate relief to the Yankee rotation.
He recorded a 14-10 record in 2010, and struck out over 200 batters in 191.2 innings. The Yankees are in need of another strikeout pitcher, which is exactly what Liriano brings to the table.
Acquiring Liriano would require the Yanks to give up several prospects, which might be a problem considering they gave up several young players to get Curtis Granderson.
Sergio Mitre is currently slated as the fifth starter in the rotation, with rookie Ivan Nova expected to begin the season pitching fourth.
Hopes of winning the division are in jeopardy too, especially because the Red Sox were able to add both Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford to the roster. The bitter rivalry between the Yanks and Sox won't be much of one if New York can't get through Boston's potent lineup.
The Rays also brought in a slimmer and motivated Manny Ramirez, and a former Yankee in Johnny Damon. Winning the division might even be too much to ask from New York right now, and with the offense getting older (A-Rod, Jeter and Posada), the chances of winning another Word Series get worse.
In the end, Liriano would be the best possible acquisition for New York since there aren't any other ace-calber pitchers on the market right now.
If The Yankees get off to a slow start against the AL East, expect GM Brian Cashman to waist no time bringing in another starter. Liriano is the ideal guy.
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