Many fans thought Ibanez would be an automatic out entering the regular season, as his spring training left much to be desired.
Those fans couldn't have been more wrong.
After Tuesday night's two home run performance against the Rays, Ibanez now has five home runs and 16 RBI on the season.
He has also put together a respectable line of .267/.317/.520.
When he was signed, the Yankees intended on using him as the primary designated hitter. He would occasionally play the outfield, they said.
Instead, Ibanez has seen significant time in the outfield with Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner both nursing injuries, and he hasn't played too poorly out there.
If the Yankees still had Jesus Montero, they would not be able to see the same versatility or production that Ibanez has offered.
Montero has provided similar offensive production to Ibanez; his line sits ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - MLB By Kenny DeJohn