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2004 yankees roster depth chart

2004 yankees roster depth chart

2 min read 31-10-2024
2004 yankees roster depth chart

The 2004 New York Yankees: A Roster Built for Domination

The 2004 New York Yankees were a team built for one thing: winning. With a roster brimming with star power and depth, they entered the season with championship aspirations, and they didn't disappoint. Here's a look at the depth chart that propelled the Bronx Bombers to the AL East title:

Starting Lineup:

  • Catcher: Jorge Posada (All-Star, Silver Slugger)
  • First Base: Jason Giambi (All-Star)
  • Second Base: Alfonso Soriano (All-Star, Silver Slugger)
  • Third Base: Alex Rodriguez (All-Star, MVP, Silver Slugger)
  • Shortstop: Derek Jeter (All-Star, Silver Slugger)
  • Left Field: Hideki Matsui (All-Star, Silver Slugger)
  • Center Field: Bernie Williams (All-Star)
  • Right Field: Gary Sheffield (All-Star, Silver Slugger)

Rotation:

  • 1. Mike Mussina: (15-8, 3.30 ERA)
  • 2. Kevin Brown: (13-8, 3.59 ERA)
  • 3. Andy Pettitte: (17-7, 3.85 ERA)
  • 4. Jon Lieber: (10-14, 4.61 ERA)
  • 5. Carl Pavano: (10-9, 3.69 ERA)

Bullpen:

  • Closer: Mariano Rivera (All-Star)
  • Setup Men: Tom Gordon, Jeff Nelson, Kyle Farnsworth, Felix Rodriguez, Paul Quantrill

Bench:

  • C: John Flaherty
  • 1B: Nick Johnson
  • 2B: Tony Womack
  • SS: Miguel Cairo
  • OF: Kenny Lofton, Bubba Crosby, Ruben Sierra
  • Utility: Robin Ventura

Key Strengths:

  • Offense: The 2004 Yankees boasted one of the most feared lineups in baseball. With Jeter, A-Rod, Giambi, Soriano, and Sheffield, they could hit from anywhere in the order.
  • Starting Pitching: Mussina, Brown, and Pettitte formed a formidable trio at the top of the rotation. While Lieber and Pavano provided dependable innings.
  • Bullpen: Mariano Rivera's dominance in the closer's role was legendary, and the bullpen's depth provided valuable insurance.

Weaknesses:

  • Defense: While individually talented, the Yankees' defense could be inconsistent at times, leading to costly errors.
  • Injuries: The team was hit by several key injuries throughout the season, including to A-Rod and Giambi.

The Journey to the World Series:

The Yankees won the AL East with a 101-61 record, overcoming a tough division with the Boston Red Sox. They defeated the Minnesota Twins in the ALDS and the Boston Red Sox in the ALCS.

In the World Series, they faced their division rival, the St. Louis Cardinals. However, the 2004 World Series will be remembered for the Cardinals’ historic comeback, after being down 3-0 in the series.

Legacy:

The 2004 Yankees were a powerhouse team, but they ultimately fell short of their goal of winning the World Series. Despite the disappointment of the World Series loss, the 2004 team's impact on baseball history is undeniable. They were a team full of legendary players, led by a manager who instilled a culture of winning.

Final Note:

While the 2004 Yankees didn't win the World Series, their roster was a testament to the team's commitment to excellence. Their journey and their near-miss in the World Series continue to be a part of the Yankee legacy.

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