Sticking up for Berkman

Judging from the latest poll results, fans are strongly against Lance Berkman hitting second in the Yankee lineup. Those who listened to my segment on a radio show yesterday heard that I have strong hopes for Berkman down the stretch.

With a late-season push, I believe Berkman can hit his way to the No. 2 spot in the Yankee lineup. His main competition will be Nick Swisher, who’s been raking in the second half.

My only problem with Swish lately is his on-base percentage has declined significantly (.377 first half, .330 second half). But his production has still increased, making him better fit for a No. 6 slot, protecting Robinson Cano.

Neither Swisher nor Berkman are particularly fast players, but when both are playing well, they’re great at getting on base. I think when Berkman heats up with the Yanks Joe Girardi should flip flop these two in the lineup.

Berkman’s age might be showing in his stats lately, but a long, long track record says he’ll still find ways to get on base at a high rate.