With the new season now upon us, it’s time for some rough projections about what we can expect from each Yankee starter.  The following are baseline numbers extrapolated from each player’s respective age, health, and record of performance.  In short, they represent what I think it is reasonable to expect from each player at this stage of his career.  Generally, I’d consider it a disappointment if a player fails to meet the level indicated and a bonus if he exceeds it.

C.C. Sabathia - 21-7, 3.25 ERA, 200 K

A.J. Burnett - 16-8, 3.85 ERA, 190 K

Andy Pettitte - 15-10, 4.10 ERA, 150 K

Javier Vazquez - 16-9, 4.15 ERA, 190 K

Phil Hughes - 13-8, 4.20 ERA, 160 K

Mariano Rivera - 42 SV, 3-4, 2.20 ERA, 75 K

If the Yankees can perform in the neighborhood of these projections, they should have little difficulty winning the division by at least 5 games.