Yankees' sobering prospects

The Yankees continue to search for answers as the clock ticks on the 2008 season. A revolving door of fresh faces and tired retreads attempt to plug holes, while there are games to be played. Brett Gardner made his debut at the Stadium last night, batting leadoff against the Texas Rangers. He flashed his heralded speed but couldn't provide a spark as the Bombers lost to the Rangers 2-1.

The Yank's record stands at 44-39, a tad better than last years wild card squad. There is a notion that progress has been achieved. The facts beg to differ: Torre's 2007 team finished with 94 wins; Girardi's 2008 squad will have to go 50-29 (.632) the rest of the way to match. Here's what they're up against: "The Rays have the best record in baseball since April 22 (41-21). They're No. 1 in the sport in Baseball Prospectus' Defensive Efficiency rankings. Opponents are hitting .211 against their bullpen -- which is the third-lowest average against any bullpen in the past half-century. And offensively, this team has gone from one of the least-disciplined lineups in baseball to one of the most. In case you hadn't noticed, Rays hitters have walked more times (300) than the Yankees (278), among other teams."--Jason Stark, ESPN. If that's not bad enough, the Ray's talent laden farm provides them quality reinforcement options. The second place Red Sox need no introduction; the injury riddled defending World Champs currently hold a five game lead over the Bombers.

The 2007 season's torrid second half was sparked by the exuberance of Chamberlain, Cano, Cabrera and Duncan. The search continues for this year's miracle.

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