Yankees 2012: The Catching Conundrum

For 10 years, the Yankees were led at catcher by Jorge Posada.  With his career winding down, the Yankees have some choices to make.

1) Do we re-sign Russell?
Russell Martin began the 2011 season as threat on offense AND defense, but gradually his offense declined in May and beyond.  Still, I feel that this is a no-brainer, Russell Martin needs to come back as a starter in 2012 and beyond.  His defense, as well as his health, is the key to his return.

And he is...OUT AT THE PLATE!  Iamge courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/photos/keithallison/5650985939/

2) Who is our backup?
Francisco Cervelli was recently diagnosed with his fourth career concussion.  While his bat and defense were an improvment in 2011, the Yankees have many viable backups in Austin Romine, and even Jesus Montero, and I do not think he will be re-signed.

3) What do we do with Posada?
Like I said, Posada has been a Yankee icon for a long time, and one of my favorite players, going back to the dynastic years.  His best years are behind him and unless he joins the coaching staff or becomes the bullpen catcher, there is no place for him UNLESS the Yankees decide to wait on Cervelli, who is out indefinitely (and they likely won't).  If he leaves, rest assured he WILL be missed in Yankee Stadium.

We have likely seen the last of Jorge :( Image courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/photos/keithallison/6084726177/in/photostream/

With a few improvements, the Yankees will have some of the best defensive, (and maybe even offensive), catchers in the league.