Yankees First Basemen

The Yankees are looking to repeat as AL East Champions in 2012.  Having said that, a large part of their team remains intact from last season.  One such area is first base.

1.  Mark Teixeira:  Teixeira had a strange season last year, struggling in many areas but still able to be effective as a slugger and run producer.  He only batted .248 and failed to reach 150 hits, but he hit 39 home runs and knocked in 111 runs batted in.  The Yankees are hoping that he can repeat with the power and production next season, and they'd welcome more consistency at the the plate, though it isn't really necessary at this point.  In addition, Teixeira provides Gold Glove calibre defense at first.

2.  Nick Swisher:  Swisher will be the first line of defense behind Tex when he needs a day off.  Having said that, his playing time there will be quite rare.  A defensive standout and only 32 in April, Teixeira doesn't figure to get much time at DH, so Swisher's only real time at first should come when Tex gets a rest.  Of course, Swisher will still be the everyday right fielder.

3.  Brandon Laird:  Laird is a huge prospect who is probably ready to make the next step to the big leagues.  The only problem with that is that there doesn't seem to be any place to play him.  A natural third baseman, Laird is penciled in to get some time at first in Spring and it probably wouldn't be a surprise to see him in left a bit also.  He may have a chance to win the last spot on the bench, but that job looks like it's going to fall to a left-hander with the recent re-signing of DH/OF Andruw Jones.

The Yankees look pretty good at first base.  Teixeira is a star even if he is inconsistent at times.  Swisher is a good source of power in the lineup whether he plays in right or at first.  Laird is a good prospect who could provide some pop off the bench or be marketed as a trade chip for bullpen help at some point, or he could be packaged with RHP A. J. Burnett for God knows what, as the Yankees have made their desire to trade Burnett in Spring Training no secret.