Ivan Tseng of Taiwan writes: “The Yankees haven’t had such promising young talent since the late 1990s.”
New York Yankees’ fans are experienced a treat this year. After suffering through an extended championship drought, this Yankees’ team has the makings of success.
What we’re seeing in NY this year aligns with what we’ve seen recently from other winning baseball clubs: championships are won with a blend of talent from the farm system and experienced veterans. It’s not always about spraying cash in the free agent market. The Yankees did that for years and without much to show for it.
The Core Four (photo, Yankees Go Yard)
The Yankees also haven’t had promising young talent since the late 1990s. Back then, a group called “The Core Four”–Jeter, Posada, Rivera, and Pettitte–helped guide The Bronx Bombers to four titles in five years. Those players all came through the Yankees’ farm system and had a team-first mentality.
This 2017 group of youngsters resembles The Core Four. Led by rookie sensation, Aaron Judge, and slugging catcher Gary Sanchez, the Yankees once again look to be a fresh team, eager to perform on the big stage.
That young talent includes all-star reliever Dellin Betances, starters Luis Severino and Jordan Montogomery, and hitters Greg Bird, Tyler Austin, and Clint Frazier. There are blossoming prospects in the farm system, too.
Judge, among all players, has the potential to be the flag carrier for NY. Listed at 6′ 7″ and 282 pounds, he currently leads the AL in homers and is a contender for winning baseball’s Triple Crown.
Gary Sanchez (24) and Aaron Judge power the Yankees (photo, ESPN.com)
Adopted as a child by parents, who are both teachers, Judge attributes his success to God and praises the Lord to have matched him with his parents.
He greets fans with a warm smile. When asked about personal achievements, Judge deflects the question, preferring instead to talk about how he wants to help the team succeed.
Judge’s composure reminds Yankees’ fans of “The Captain,” Derek Jeter; and his numbers are reminescent of the likes of Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle. With humble personality and stellar performance, it’s now wonder that fans flock to sit in what’s called “The Judge’s Chamber.”
This might be a repeat of what Derek Jeter and his companions achieved two decades.
So is another Yankees dynasty in the offing? Only time will tell.
