Are the Yankees even better moving into 2010 than they were in 2009? Here's some reasons why I think they are:

1.Johnson for Matsui is basically a wash as Matsui hits for more power and Johnson gets on base at a higher clip. Plus Johnson at least gives the flexibility for a day off for Tex (at least occasionally) as playing first base is much less demanding on the body than outfield. His skill set is tailor made for the Yankees line up. Now if only he can stay healthy and give the Yankees 450 at bats?

2.Granderson essentially replaces Damon's bat. If he hit 30 homers at Comerica park thats practically 40 at YS3. Big defensive upgrade over Damon as well.

3.Gardner in center or left is potentially more effective than Cabrera. Is it really out of the question for Gardner to hit .280 with 90 runs scored and 45 stolen bases? I mean project his numbers to a full season last year and that's basically what you had. Plus the defensive upgrade over Cabrera or Damon is huge wherever he plays defensively.

4.The rotation is also better this year. Vazquez and Hughes/Joba as 4th and 5th respectively is much better than Chamberlain (with Joba rules) and Mitre/Wang. That also pushes Hughes/Joba to the bullpen, giving the pen a big lae inning boost. That makes the bullpen a huge strength whereas going into last year the bullpen had Ramirez and Veras, who were pure trash and couldn't throw strikes!

I see only upgrades everywhere! The lineup is more versatile, beter defensively and in the pitching department. I think the Yanks have a great chance to defend the title in 2010!