One of the few questions the Yankees had coming into Spring Training was what to expect in 2010 from Brett Gardner! In fact, Flash Gardner isn't even guaranteed a starting spot on the 2010 team. If Randy Winn or Marcus Thames play well in Spring Training (which they are not!) either one could have supplanted Gardner in the starting line-up despite the weaknesses each one has.

Let's be realistic about Gardner: He is never going to hit for power! But it isn't unrealistic to expect a batting average around .280 with 40 or more stolen bases and gold glove caliber defense in either left or center field! It's not like the Yankees were getting much power out of Melky Cabrera anyways and Gardner brings other things to the line-up as well including better defense, a higher OBP from the 9th spot in the line-up (meaning more run scoring opportunities for the top of the order) and the obvious: speed.

Gardner is one of the few players on the team who can change a game with his legs. Whether it's bunting for a base hit, going first to third on a single, playing hit and run or just stealing bases, he is a potential game changer. Gardner has always taken a little time to adjust to the pitching on each level he has played on but the average has always come around for him. Even his Major League production reflects this as he raised his average from .228 to .270. It's reasonable to expect another increase this season as he further develops. Projecting Gardner's numbers from the 2009 season to a full season worth of playing time and you'd have something like 90 runs scored and 50 stolen bases. Is that really so bad coming out of the 9th spot in the line-up?

My prediction for Brett Gardner in 2010: .284, 90 runs, 48 stolen bases, at least 1 inside-the-park home run, and a  dozen jaw droppiong plays in the outfield (to go along with solid everyday play). Brett has the potential to make alot of believers in the coming season! You heard it here first!