Entering the 2014 Season
Background
The New York Yankees’ 2014 season began with significant changes after a difficult 2013 campaign. The team finished with 85 wins, but injuries disrupted the roster throughout the year. Key players such as Francisco Cervelli, Mark Teixeira, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Curtis Granderson missed extended time. As a result, the Yankees often relied on minor league replacements. This reduced offensive production and limited consistency.
Offseason Changes
In preparation for the 2014 season, the Yankees reshaped their roster to strengthen both the lineup and pitching staff. Important additions included:
- Masahiro Tanaka, a starting pitcher signed from Japan, joined CC Sabathia, Hiroki Kuroda, Ivan Nova, and Michael Pineda in the rotation.
- Brian McCann, a catcher, was expected to add stability behind the plate and provide steady offense.
- Jacoby Ellsbury, a center fielder, brought speed and defense to the outfield.
- Carlos Beltrán, a right fielder, added veteran experience and power.
At the same time, the Yankees lost second baseman Robinson Canó to Seattle and long-time starter Andy Pettitte to retirement. These departures created both challenges and opportunities for the team.
Projected Rotation and Bullpen (2014)
The Yankees planned the following rotation: CC Sabathia, Hiroki Kuroda, Ivan Nova, Masahiro Tanaka, and Michael Pineda. This mix of veterans and younger pitchers aimed to balance stability with upside.
The bullpen also carried significance. The Yankees named David Robertson the closer after Mariano Rivera retired. Robertson entered the role with limited closing experience, which made his development critical. He worked alongside Shawn Kelley, Dellin Betances, Matt Thornton, Vidal Nuño, David Phelps, and Adam Warren. Together, this group provided both right- and left-handed options.
Position Players
The projected lineup combined returning veterans and new signings:
- Infield: Brian McCann (C), Mark Teixeira (1B), Brian Roberts (2B), Derek Jeter (SS), Kelly Johnson (3B).
- Outfield: Brett Gardner (LF), Jacoby Ellsbury (CF), Carlos Beltrán (RF).
- Designated Hitter: Alfonso Soriano.
The return of Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira was significant. Their presence stabilized the infield and improved the lineup’s balance. In addition, Ellsbury and Gardner provided speed at the top, while McCann and Beltrán added middle-order power.
Depth and Prospects
The Yankees also prepared depth across positions. Francisco Cervelli served as McCann’s backup. Austin Romine, John Ryan Murphy, and Gary Sánchez offered further catching options. Brendan Ryan, Dean Anna, Yangervis Solarte, and Eduardo Núñez provided infield coverage. Ichiro Suzuki and Zoilo Almonte offered outfield support.
Several young pitchers, including Andrew Bailey, Alfredo Aceves, Shane Greene, and Manny Bañuelos, were also expected to contribute during the season if needed.
Season Outlook (Preseason 2014)
Analysts predicted that the New York Yankees’ 2014 season would show improvement compared to 2013. Many projected win totals in the mid-to-high 80s. With new acquisitions, the return of veterans, and younger players developing, the roster gave the Yankees a realistic chance to contend for the American League East title.