More Yankee musings because I’m not ready to talk Super Bowl yet…

The New York Yankees will not make the playoffs. While the rest of the sports world is licking the balls of the New England Patriots and the New York Giants (I don’t know about you but I am tired of hearing the “inspirational” stories of various players on both sides) the other major sports have largely been ignored. Recently, it has been reported that the Yanks have secured the services of Robinson Cano for at least four more years. This bit of news— hidden under the heartwarming stories of players such as Chris Snee (Who really cares if he is a small town hero?)— planted the question of whether the Yankees are going to make the playoffs? Unfortunately for you Yankee-diehards, I don’t see them reaching the postseason (I won’t even mention the bum ass Mets) because of their lack of pitching.

A rotation featuring Ian Kennedy, Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain looks like it will be formidable… about 2 years from now. Unfortunately for Joe Girardi and Co., we are living in the present and a staff featuring three rookies can’t be considered a strength. Especially, when the rookies are have innings limits and the most talented of them all— Joba Chamberlain— may start the season in the bullpen. Speaking of the ‘pen, that’s another mystery heading into the 2008 season. We all know what Mariano Rivera brings to the table, but what about the rest of the guys seated beyond the “399” marker? Who is the bridge to # 42? Those questions remain largely unanswered.

I know the Yankees made the playoffs with basically the same roster last season, but the Tigers went to Upgrade-U in the offseason and the Indians are the defending Central Division Champs. Not to mention the Mariners are now poised to trade for an potential ace in Eric Bedard. All this, combined with the rise of the Blue Jays, will make the American League extremely difficult to navigate. What that means is the Yankees cannot pull a Mets and win 88 games, and still remain in contention. Actually, if the Yankees win only 88 games this season, then Brian Cashman will probably be fired and Hank Steinbrenner will bring the Zoo back to the Bronx. Now maybe I’m wrong and the Yankees will go out and drop 100 wins, but like the many sports columnists/bloggers who litter the internet with their “expert” opinions, you will have long forgotten about my bold prediction: “The Yankees will not make the playoffs.”