My latest poll found that, if forced to choose, Granderson is worth keeping more than Swisher. Soon enough, we'll see what the Yankees decide. As NY Post columnist Joel Sherman noted last week, the Yankees likely won't bring back both.
On paper, I have to agree with my readers. Granderson had a career year last season, and he's on track for another huge one. That wall in right field must look 50 feet away from him from the batter's box.
But Swisher brings something else to the table, and I think it's dearly important in New York. I don't think there's a better teammate out there than Swisher. Whether it's on the field, off the field, or in the clubhouse, it looks like he's having a good time. It's an infectious attitude, and I really think people forget about how bad things used to be with Gary Sheffield and Randy Johnson (wow I haven't thought of that name in a long time). And how bad things can get (see: Red Sox 2011-12).
From a business standpoint, it's no question. Let go of Swish, re-sign Grandy. But if I had the reigns, I'd do everything possible to keep both, because these guys have really been worth their salaries (if that's even possible).
Granderson got off to a slow start in New York, but for the last year and a half he's been in a groove. The Yankees added him after they won the World Series in 2009, and he hit .247 with 24 homers. "Not good enough," fans said. So he pretty much doubled his production in 2011: 41 homers, 119 RBIs, fourth in MVP voting.
Swisher has been a model of consistency. You can expect 25 homers, 85 RBIs and decent percentages. Plus, the intangibles. Remember, Swish was in the center of those pile-ups at home plate during the Year of the Walk-Off.
From a business standpoint, it's no question. Let go of Swish, re-sign Grandy. But if I had the reigns, I'd do everything possible to keep both, because these guys have really been worth their salaries (if that's even possible).
Granderson got off to a slow start in New York, but for the last year and a half he's been in a groove. The Yankees added him after they won the World Series in 2009, and he hit .247 with 24 homers. "Not good enough," fans said. So he pretty much doubled his production in 2011: 41 homers, 119 RBIs, fourth in MVP voting.
Swisher has been a model of consistency. You can expect 25 homers, 85 RBIs and decent percentages. Plus, the intangibles. Remember, Swish was in the center of those pile-ups at home plate during the Year of the Walk-Off.
Just saying.
