Yankees Center Fielders

The Yankees are attempting to repeat as AL East Champions in 2012.  As such, they are going forward with a team that includes a long list of returning players from 2011.  One such area with a returning player in place is center field.

1.  Curtis Granderson:  Granderson is still under Yankee control for the time being, and no one is complaining about that.  Last season he batted .262, with 136 runs scored, 41 homers, 119 runs batted in, and 25 stolen bases.  In addition, he plays solid defense in center field.  The only real blemish for Granderson is that he still struggles a bit against lefties.  But the Yankees aren't worried; they're expecting him to have another strong season next year.

2.  Brett Gardner:  Gardner is still under Yankee control, and he'll be in the lineup almost everyday, though he's expected to play multiple positions and bat in various spots in the lineup.  He should get some time in center field when the Yankees face a lefty.  Last season he batted .259 with 49 stolen bases.

3.  Chris Dickerson:  Dickerson is a young player in the Yankees system who is still under club control.  He batted .260 in 50 at-bats last season, and is known more for his defense than his bat.  Dickerson was a favorite to stick with the team until DH /LF Raul Ibanez was signed.  Now that DH/OF Andruw Jones will be used in a fourth outfielder's role Dickerson's chances of sticking with the team are much more slim.  He's likely headed back to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this season, though he'll be the first person recalled in the Yankees need an outfielder.

4.  Justin Maxwell:  Maxwell is a former top prospect in the Washington organization who moved to the Yankees last season.  He was injured for most of last season, batting .260 in 177 at-bats for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.  Maxwell plays good defense in the outfield and is in the running for a fourth outfielder's job, but now he finds himself behind Jones and Dickerson.  He's likely headed back to AAA next season, and it's possible he may be given his outright release by the Yankees in the Spring.

5.  Melky Mesa:  Mesa is a player coming up through the Yankees system who they have added to the 40-man roster to protect from the Rule V Draft.  Mesa had a down season last year in the Minors, batting .249 in 398 at-bats.  In addition, he struck out 133 times and only drew 39 walks.  Mesa, however, is known for his defense and has never been a good hitter, and his defense is still as strong as ever.  He'll probably be headed back to Trenton this season, but he should be promoted to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre soon and a September call-up wouldn't be out of the question for him.

6.  Dewayne Wise:  Wise is a veteran who the Yankees have signed to a Minor League contract and invited to Spring Training.  Wise spent most of last season in the Majors with Toronto and Florida but did not perform well, batting .202 in 99 at-bats.  A defensive specialist, Wise is trying to win a job as a fourth outfielder, but finds himself low on the totem pole and is not guaranteed money like Jones.  He'll probably be offered a spot on the team at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, though it will be curious to see if he accepts that assignment. 

The Yankees look strong in center field.  Granderson is a star in every sense of the word.  Gardner is also an exceptional player in left and a capable fill-in when Granderson sits in center.  Dickerson, Maxwell, and Wise are good for depth.  Mesa is an interesting player in the system.