So I have remained silent this off season.   I have quietly watched and listened as the Yankees let Russel Martin, Nick Swisher and Eric Chavez walk.  I have watched as first A-Rod, then Granderson, then Texeira, then Jeter, then Hughes went down.   I have watched as they signed Youklis, traded for Wells and signed Francisco, Boesch and Overbay.   I have read all of the doomsday predictions, with some even predicting that the Yankees would finish last in the A.L. East.  Now with opening day fast approaching, it’s time to finally speak.  Here is my bold prediction.  The Yankees will finish no worse than second in the A.L. East.  They will not hit as many home runs this year, but may score just about as many runs as last year, just in a different way.  They will hit more singles and doubles, they will have a higher OBP and they will pitch at least as well, if not better than last year.  I for one, won’t miss Texeira or A-Rod while they are out.  I am tired of watching A-Rod’s feeble attempts at hitting these days and I am also tired of watching Texeira repeatedly hit right into the teeth of the shift.   I thing Youklis will be a capable fill in at third and the rest of the lineup will hit enough to soften the blow of the other losses.  There you go, that’s my bold prediction and I will stick by it.  Can’t wait for tomorrow and let’s enjoy the ride this year.