Have the Yankees changed their philosophy?

Updated: March 26, 2007, 12:14 PM ET

Comment Email Print Share

SportsNation

Robinson Cano is one of several young Yankees who could blossom into stars.

Since losing the 2001 World Series, the Yankees have been defined by an almost-pathological need to acquire baseball's best and brightest, no matter what the cost. Whether signing high-priced stars to exorbitant free-agent contracts, or trading away young players for aging veterans, the Yankees always seemed to get their man. Some of these signings have worked out quite well (Mike Mussina), while others have been disastrous (Kevin Brown, Carl Pavano). Regardless, none have brought the Yankees a championship.

This offseason has been quiet for baseball's marquee franchise. Aside from the signings of Kei Igawa and Andy Pettitte, the Yankees have avoided blockbuster trades; most of the top free agents on the market signed in places other than New York. In a sudden change of direction, the Yankees seem poised to rely on homegrown players in a way that they've neglected for most of the 21st century.

Suddenly, the Yankees are stockpiling prospects, while giving young players more and more playing time. Chien-Ming Wang is their surprise staff ace. Melky Cabrera has become a reliable fourth outfielder. Robinson Cano might win a batting title. All the while, the Yankees have blue-chip pitchers Philip Hughes and Humberto Sanchez (the latter acquired in the Gary Sheffield trade) waiting in the wings.

Have the Yankees truly changed their philosophy? We'll know more as the season progresses. If they have, they'll be a true force to reckon with; all those high-priced free agents will suddenly have support on the home front, from a new generation of Yankees.

What They're Saying

Keith Law: "The Yanks' system also now boasts depth that it hasn't had in years. Trading Gary Sheffield netted the Yankees another top pitching prospect in Humberto Sanchez as well as two live arms in Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett. Randy Johnson didn't bring as much back, but the Yanks did grab another live arm in Ross Ohlendorf. Meanwhile, Tyler Clippard passed the Double-A test and looks like at least a fifth starter in the majors, while 2006 sandwich pick Joba Chamberlain, who fell out of the top-10 picks due to serious concerns about the state of his shoulder, threw extremely well in the Hawaiian Winter League."
Jan. 26, 2007
Yankees' farm system packed with punch

Jayson Stark: "Bringing in those gazillion-dollar, superstud hired guns hasn't worked so well.

But those Chien-Ming Wangs and Robinson Canos and Melky Cabreras -- who must have slipped into town while everybody was busy watching the A-Rod and Randy Johnson news conferences -- all seemed to manage just fine. And the Yankees finally have concluded that that might not have been an accident."
March 7, 2007
Hughes represents Yankees' new direction

Ken Singleton: "A lot of the credit for the improved minor league system certainly has to go to Brian Cashman and the Yankees front office for their commitment to rebuilding the farm, and recognizing that young talent and growth within the organization is a key component to a successful franchise. One man that truly deserves credit for this complete turnaround is Gene Michael, the Yankees' Vice President and Special Advisor to the Principal Owner. Michael is acknowledged as one of the best talent evaluators and scouts in the business, and that is not an underestimation."
March 18, 2007
YesNetwork.com: The Yankees' farm system is stronger than ever.

The Rundown: Young Yankees