Plenty of Questions; No Answers Yet for Yankees

Plenty of Questions; No Answers Yet for Yankees
Kareem Shaker

Bronx, NY

The New York Yankees were left holding a bag of questions following their quick elimination from the American League Division Series.

Despite finishing with the best record in the American League and watching their rival Red Sox blow a nine-game September Wild Card lead, three one-run losses have general manager Brian Cashman and the entire organization going back to the drawing board.

Ace and playoff underperformer CC Sabathia can opt out of his contract and may demand even more per season than what the seven-year, $161 million contract he signed in 2008 paid him. Behind Sabathia, there are few options for a high-caliber starter, one being the Rangers C.J. Wilson, unless the Mariners decide to deal Felix Hernandez.

Jorge Posada, who struggled early in the season but led the Yankees in batting during the playoffs, has a contract set to expire. He will either take less money to come back in a limited role with New York or another team, or retire a Yankee.

Just like nearly every offseason, New York will be after a high-caliber starting pitcher and may use talented prospect Jesus Montero as trade-bait to land another left-handed reliever.

Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira both underperformed during the playoffs, but with their hefty contracts they aren't going anywhere.

The biggest question may be in the front office, where general manger Brian Cashman's contract is up.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, Cashman is likely to re-sign with the Yanks, but may face serious scrutiny.